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Justice Quote by David Levithan

“Tony:...but you need something to do about Noah. Paul: I know, I know. The only problem being that (a) he thinks I'm getting back with my ex-boyfriend, (b) he thinks I'll only hurt him, because (c) I've already hurt him and (d) someone else has already hurt him, which means that I'm hurting him…” quote by David Levithan
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““Tony:...but you need something to do about Noah. Paul: I know, I know. The only problem being that (a) he thinks I'm getting back with my ex-boyfriend, (b) he thinks I'll only hurt him, because (c) I've already hurt him and (d) someone else has already hurt him, which means that I'm hurting him even more. So (e) he doesn't trust me, and in all fairness, (g) every time I see him, I (h) want everything to be right again and I (i) want to kiss him madly. This means that (j) my feelings aren't going away anytime soon, but (k) his feelings don't look likely to budge, either. So either (l) I'm out of luck, (m) I'm out of hope, or (n) there's a way to make it up to him that I'm not thinking of. I could (o) beg, (p) plead, (q) grovel, or (r) give up. But, in order to do that, I would have to sacrifice my (s) pride, (t) reputation, and (u) self-respect, even though (v) I have very little of them left and (w) it probably wouldn't work anyway. As a result, I am (x) lost, (y) clue-free, and (z) wondering if you have any idea whatsoever what I should do.””

David Levithan

About This Quote

Source Novel: Every Day by David Levithan, 2012

The speaker feels trapped in a painful relationship, fearing loss of trust and struggling with how to repair it without sacrificing self‑respect.

In simple terms: Feeling stuck in a relationship and unsure how to fix it.

Key Takeaway

Consider honest communication and boundaries.

Themes

relationship trust self‑esteem conflict vulnerability

Mood

conflicted hopeful anxious

Type

advice reflective emotional

When to use this quote

  • breakup discussions
  • relationship counseling
  • personal reflection
  • setting limits

Key Concepts

attachment theory emotional intelligence boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can you realistically change without losing yourself?
  • How might honest dialogue alter the dynamic?
A Different Perspective

Changing behavior may not rebuild trust if underlying issues remain.

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