I see this quote as a way of implying to be more positive about a situation rather than be negative about it. Jeannette, in this part of the memoir, feels embarrassed due to the fact that her and her family is sleeping in a car that is falling apart. People are staring at them, and laughing which is not a great feeling at all. Her mom, on the other hand, has a totally different perspective on their situation. She would wave at these people like nothing was wrong; she was unfazed. I admire Rose Mary for not caring about what others think of her; it’s quite daring. When she tells Jeannette about the two sides of life, tragedy and comedy, I agree with her 100%. Looking at everything in a negative manner does nothing tip-top for anyone; negativity