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Parenthood Quote by Harlan Coben

“I kept glancing at her animated face, scrunched up as though imitating an adult. I got hit with that overwhelming feeling. It sneaked up on me. Parents get it from time to time. You are looking at your child and it is an ordinary moment, not like they are onstage or hitting a winning shop, just…” quote by Harlan Coben
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““I kept glancing at her animated face, scrunched up as though imitating an adult. I got hit with that overwhelming feeling. It sneaked up on me. Parents get it from time to time. You are looking at your child and it is an ordinary moment, not like they are onstage or hitting a winning shop, just sitting there, and you look at them and you know that they are your whole life and that moves you and scares you and makes you want to stop time.””

Harlan Coben

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Stranger, 2015

Seeing a child’s pure, unguarded joy reveals profound love and fear, prompting a wish to pause time.

In simple terms: A child's joy shows love and fear.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate fleeting moments with loved ones.

Themes

parenthood love time fear

Mood

emotional introspective

Type

personal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family meals
  • watching a child play
  • celebrating milestones
  • quiet evenings

Key Concepts

mindfulness emotional depth

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you capture and cherish everyday moments?
  • What fears arise when you realize life's brevity?
A Different Perspective

Time cannot be stopped; moments pass despite desire.

2.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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