Quotes
"Don't judge a man before you walk two moons in his moccasins."
This proverb-like statement, uttered by Gram, encapsulates a central theme of understanding and empathy. It encourages Sal to look beyond initial impressions and consider another person's perspective before forming an opinion. The imagery of "walking two moons" emphasizes the need for extensive experience and understanding to truly judge someone's actions and motivations. This quote foreshadows Sal's own journey of self-discovery as she delves deeper into her mother's past and challenges her initial judgments.
"In a course of a lifetime, what does it matter?"
Spoken while facing the death of her beloved dog, Gram's statement initially appears nonchalant but carries deeper meaning. It reflects a stoic acceptance of life's impermanence and the insignificance of small grievances in the grand scheme of things. While Sal initially interprets it as apathy, she eventually recognizes the wisdom in finding peace and perspective amidst loss and change. This quote reinforces the theme of resilience and the importance of appreciating the present moment.
"You can't keep the birds of sadness from flying over your head, but you can keep them from nesting in your hair."
This metaphor beautifully expresses the inevitability of sadness in life. Gram acknowledges that difficult emotions will arise, like birds flying overhead. However, she emphasizes the importance of not letting them take root and control our lives, like birds nesting in our hair. This quote encourages Sal to acknowledge her grief while actively seeking healthy coping mechanisms to prevent it from consuming her. It reflects the theme of navigating through sadness without being defined by it.
