Best Quote by Anne Lamott
“I am the woman I grew to be partly in spite of my mother, and partly because of the extraordinary love of her best friends, and my own best friends' mothers, and from surrogates, many of whom were not women at all but gay men. I have loved them my entire life, even after their passing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Travelogue of a Serial Killer, 2005
A woman acknowledges how her identity was shaped by both conflict with her mother and the supportive love of diverse friends and mentors, including gay men who acted as surrogate parents.
In simple terms: Identity forms through both opposition and love from varied relationships.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and honor all influences that shaped you.
Themes
identity
family
friendship
LGBTQ+
grief
Mood
reflective
grateful
hopeful
Type
personal
inspirational
emotional
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- healing
- community building
- support networks
Key Concepts
intersectionality
surrogate parenting
intergenerational love
Questions to Reflect On
- How have you integrated opposing influences into your sense of self?
- What role do chosen families play in your life?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on conflict may overlook other personal agency factors.
