Abandoned Quote by Judith Viorst
“Our father presents an optional set of rhythms and responses for us to connect to. As a second home base, he makes it safer to roam. With him as an ally--a love--it is safer, too, to show that we're mad when we're mad at our mother. We can hate and not be abandoned, hate and still love.”
About This Quote
The quote suggests that a supportive father figure provides emotional safety, allowing us to express anger toward our mother without fear of abandonment, and to experience both hate and love simultaneously.
In simple terms: A caring father lets us safely feel and express complex emotions toward our mother.
Lean on a supportive parent for emotional grounding.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parent-child relationships
- family therapy
- personal growth
- conflict discussions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a father's support change your emotional expression?
- What if that support is absent?
Not everyone has a supportive father, limiting this dynamic.