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Aberration Quote by Margaret George

“It is almost impossible to describe happiness, because at the time it feels entirely natural, as if all the rest of your life has been the aberration; only in retrospect does it swim into focus as the rare and precious thing it is. When it is present, it seems to be eternal, abiding forever, and…” quote by Margaret George
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“It is almost impossible to describe happiness, because at the time it feels entirely natural, as if all the rest of your life has been the aberration; only in retrospect does it swim into focus as the rare and precious thing it is. When it is present, it seems to be eternal, abiding forever, and there is no need to examine it or clutch it. Later, when it has evaporated, you stare in dismay at your empty palm, where only a little of the perfume lingers to prove that once it was there, and now is flown.”

Margaret George

About This Quote

Source Novel: “The House of the Spirits”, 1993

Happiness feels natural and fleeting; only later is its rarity recognized.

In simple terms: Happiness is fleeting, later valued.

Key Takeaway

Cherish moments of joy.

Themes

happiness transience reflection nostalgia

Mood

reflective nostalgic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily gratitude
  • mindful meditation
  • journaling
  • celebration of milestones

Key Concepts

ephemeral joy life appraisal mindfulness emotional memory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moments bring you lasting joy?
  • How can you savor present happiness?
A Different Perspective

May idealize past happiness.

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