This Won't End Well

by Camille Pagán

Unfortunately, I made the mistake of letting a tiny bit of optimism leak into my realism. I should hardly be surprised by the outcome.

optimistic assumptions are the fastest way to become deeply disillusioned by human nature. Best to anticipate the worst and then enjoy the momentary satisfaction of having your predictions pan out.

I think intelligence is mostly a construct made of curiosity, opportunity, and plain old hard work, sometimes it is the thought that counts.

Fact: People are the cause of most pain. Fact: I cannot handle any more pain right now.

As it happens, most great minds think independently, and die long before the rest of the world comes around to their brilliance.

“People make mistakes. Sometimes you just need to stay hopeful and give it time.” He said something in Arabic, then added in English, “My mother always says that. It means, ‘What is coming is better than what has gone.’”

There are days, many in fact, when I remain convinced that women cannot win. We ask for equal pay and a seat at the table, and instead we’re handed control-top pantyhose and pink wine with cupcakes on the label.

People make bad choices in spite of what you do—not because of it.”

But maybe time doesn’t so much heal wounds as weaken one’s convictions.

“Haven’t you ever wanted something so badly you were afraid of it?”

Maybe careful is overrated, and I’m just now seeing that for the first time.

The price of self-protection may, in fact, be higher than the cost of vulnerability.

Life is too short to be living the story someone else has told about you.”

“It can seem impossible to change the status quo, especially if you’re not in a position of power. But as I’ve recently learned, you’re only as alone as you think you are.

if you’re willing to look for joy and open yourself to new possibilities, the end is not an ending at all. It’s a beginning.