One True Thing

by Anna Quindlen

There is something strange about the roots of people settled in a place where everyone else passes through.

How providential that most children left home when they did, before they were wise enough to understand their parents.

“Buying shoes always gives me a lift, like buying new stationery or a new purse. It makes you feel as if there’s something to look forward to.”

“It’s more important that you take advantage of the time you have than that you worry about how much time there is.”

It’s so much easier, to learn to love what you have instead of yearning always for what you’re missing, or what you imagine you’re missing. It’s so much more peaceful.”