Birthday Quote by Cecil B. DeMille
““Only twice in my nearly fifty years of friendship with David Belasco did he ever disappoint me; and I am glad that experience came early. When I was perhaps seven or eight years old, he promised me, many months before my birthday, that he would give me a pony. What boy would nurse that promise to his bosom for any number of months? When the 12th of August dawned, I was downstairs early, I think before anyone else was up. I looked out at the barnyard. No pony. I waited all day. No pony. I said nothing. No pony. There were other presents, of course, and all the other excitement of a small boy’s birthday: but underneath it I was having my very first experience of a forgotten promise.””
About This Quote
Source Memoir: Personal recollection, 1930s
A childhood memory of a broken promise teaches that early disappointments shape trust and expectations.
In simple terms: Broken promises teach early lessons about trust.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how early letdowns affect future expectations.
Themes
trust
expectation
childhood
memory
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
narrative
personal
When to use this quote
- parent‑child interactions
- friendship
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
development
relationships
Questions to Reflect On
- How do early betrayals influence your trust in others?
- Can you forgive a broken promise?
A Different Perspective
Promises may be forgotten despite good intentions.
