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I wanted a drink. There were a hundred reasons why a man…

“I wanted a drink. There were a hundred reasons why a man will want a drink, but I wanted one now for the most elementary reason of all. I didn't want to feel what I was feeling, and a voice within was telling me that I needed a drink, that I couldn't bear it without it. But that voice is a liar…” quote by Lawrence Block
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“I wanted a drink. There were a hundred reasons why a man will want a drink, but I wanted one now for the most elementary reason of all. I didn't want to feel what I was feeling, and a voice within was telling me that I needed a drink, that I couldn't bear it without it. But that voice is a liar. You can always bear the pain. It'll hurt, it'll burn like acid in an open wound, but you can stand it. And, as long as you can make yourself go on choosing the pain over the relief, you can keep going.”

Lawrence Block

About This Quote

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

Enduring pain without seeking quick relief builds resilience and self‑control.

In simple terms: You can endure pain without a drink.

Key Takeaway

Choose pain over relief to grow stronger.

Themes

resilience self‑control addiction mental strength

Mood

determined reflective

Type

motivational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • recovering from addiction
  • stressful work
  • emotional crisis
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

psychology habit formation willpower

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when pain is too much?
  • What healthier alternatives can replace the urge for relief?
A Different Perspective

Pain may become overwhelming without support or coping strategies.

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