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There’s three ways not to see what you don’t want to,’ she…

“There’s three ways not to see what you don’t want to,’ she told me. ‘One is the coward’s way and too damned painful. The other is to close your eyes forever which is the same as the first, when it comes to it. The third is the hardest and the best: You have to make sure only the things you can…” quote by Jeff VanderMeer
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““There’s three ways not to see what you don’t want to,’ she told me. ‘One is the coward’s way and too damned painful. The other is to close your eyes forever which is the same as the first, when it comes to it. The third is the hardest and the best: You have to make sure only the things you can afford to see come before you.’ *””

Jeff VanderMeer

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

We can choose to avoid uncomfortable truths, but the most rewarding path is to confront and prioritize what we can handle.

In simple terms: Avoiding pain is easy; confronting it is rewarding.

Key Takeaway

Face what you can bear to grow.

Themes

psychology growth choice comfort truth

Mood

introspective motivational challenging

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • personal development
  • creative writing
  • coaching
  • mindfulness practice

Key Concepts

Cognitive avoidance resilience building self-awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths are you avoiding?
  • How can you safely engage with difficult realities?
A Different Perspective

Confronting truth can be emotionally taxing and may lead to distress if unprepared.

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