How can it be, after all this concentrated effort and separation, how can it be that I still resemble, so very closely, my own detestable mother?

Everyone else we knew growing up is the same: image of their parents, no matter how loud they told themselves they'd be different

She wants you to be a god," I told him.
"I know." His face twisted with embarrassment, and in spite of itself my heart lightened. It was such a boyish response. And so human. Parents, everywhere.

Ignorance doesn't kill you, but it makes you sweat a lot.

Beyond the mountains there are mountains again.

If I had received good instruction as a child I would be with my family today and at peace with my neighbors. I hope and pray that all you parents in the sound of my voice will train up your children in the way they should go.