Children Quote by Alice McDermott
““It was simply what you did: you made conversation in elevators, complimented small children in strollers, looked up from your magazine to greet the stranger who took the seat beside you on a bus. You said, with simple friendliness, That’s a lovely hat, or Isn’t it cold?—because it was another way of saying here we are, all of us, more or less in the same boat. It was the habit of friendliness, a lifetime of it. Mary Keane smiled. Her dress and her son’s jacket and the slipcover on the couch beneath her were soaked and the next contraction was already gathering strength in the small of her back. Mary Keane smiled politely as Mr. Persichetti poked his head around the door to the vestibule and said, “Hello.” He took her hand and then her pulse. He put his broad palm on her forehead and then took her hand again as her face flushed and she drew her legs up against the pain. He””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion, 2005
Friendliness is a habit that builds connection and empathy, even in brief, everyday encounters.
In simple terms: Being kind creates shared humanity.
Key Takeaway
Practice small acts of kindness daily.
Themes
friendship
empathy
human connection
habit
compassion
Mood
warm
hopeful
reflective
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- elevator rides
- bus seats
- hospital rooms
- family gatherings
- public transport
Key Concepts
social interaction
emotional intelligence
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you make kindness feel authentic?
- What small gesture can you offer today?
A Different Perspective
Kindness may feel superficial if not backed by genuine concern.
