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Long time Quote by Anne Michaels

“Avery did not know what Jean was thinking, only that there was intense thought behind those eyes filled with tears. It was not only her weeping that moved him, but this intensity of thought he perceived in her. Already he knew that he did not want to tamper, to force open, to take what was not…” quote by Anne Michaels
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““Avery did not know what Jean was thinking, only that there was intense thought behind those eyes filled with tears. It was not only her weeping that moved him, but this intensity of thought he perceived in her. Already he knew that he did not want to tamper, to force open, to take what was not his; and that he was willing to wait for a long time for her to speak herself to him.””

Anne Michaels

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Winter Vault by Anne Michaels, 2009

Understanding another's deep sorrow requires seeing beyond tears to the intense thought behind them, and respecting their autonomy.

In simple terms: See beyond tears to the thought behind them.

Key Takeaway

Respect others' inner worlds before acting.

Themes

empathy perception respect intimacy

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • grief counseling
  • conflict resolution
  • personal relationships
  • artistic interpretation

Key Concepts

psychology interpersonal dynamics nonverbal communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does true empathy require?
  • How can we honor others' boundaries?
A Different Perspective

Assuming we can fully know another's mind may be impossible.

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