Within Arm's Reach

by Ann Napolitano

even when the worst thing imaginable happens, the individuals involved still survive.

I need to know that my world is not about to explode, in spite of any surprise or botched plan I throw at it.

No one in my mother’s family ever talks about anything that can be categorized as unpleasant or having to do with emotions, and, as a result, they no longer have anything to say.

For them it’s not a matter of keeping secrets; it’s a matter of being polite, mannerly, and tough. The McLaughlins couldn’t spill their woes or ask for help even if they wanted to, because they don’t have the vocabulary. They are stranded within themselves, convinced that the only way is to silently persevere.

I ask everyone to come to me with their heart on their sleeves, while not allowing anyone a good look at who I am.

The thing with Ryan is that you can’t listen to him the way you do to just anyone. You have to listen to what is beneath his words. You have to listen to his concern, his faith, his heart.

“You need to make something of your life before life makes something of you.”

One of the problems with her generation is that their collective sense of right and wrong is too flexible, and they just end up confusing themselves with too many options.

I want to know why I am their enemy and their father is their friend. I want them to be my friends, now that I don’t have to parent them anymore. Now that they’ve grown up.