Aging Quote by Margaret Atwood
““Today I speak to my bones as I would speak to a dog. I want to go up the stairs, I tell them. Up, up, up, with one leg dragging. Is the ache deep in the bones, this elusive pain? Does that mean it will rain? Good bones, good bones, I coax, wondering how to reward them; if they will sit up for me, beg, roll over, do one more trick, once more. There. We're at the top. Good bones! Good bones ! Keep on going.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Testaments by Margaret Atwood, 2019
The speaker personifies her bones, urging them like a pet, to persist despite pain, celebrating small victories and resilience.
In simple terms: Treat your body like a partner, urging it forward despite discomfort.
Key Takeaway
Encourage perseverance through physical hardship.
Themes
resilience
body awareness
motivation
self‑talk
determination
Mood
determined
hopeful
reflective
Type
inspirational
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- rehabilitation
- exercise
- chronic illness coping
- elderly mobility
- post‑surgery recovery
Key Concepts
embodiment
pain perception
goal setting
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you motivate a fatigued body?
- What small victories keep you moving forward?
A Different Perspective
Physical limits may still impede progress despite mental encouragement.
