Right now Quote by May Sarton
““But when Ellen throws at me that I have never had to struggle I feel like saying, 'Maybe. But I have had to learn to be capable in a hundred ways that were no pleasure or nourishment really. If I had not been rich, I might have become a good painter.' Instead, right now I had better get the silver out and see what needs polishing.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Journal of a Solitary Woman, 1975
The speaker reflects on privilege and personal growth, recognizing that hardship can foster capability, yet also sees the need to refine one’s own talents despite comfort.
In simple terms: Privilege can teach skill, but self‑improvement still matters.
Key Takeaway
Use your resources to develop and polish your abilities.
Themes
self‑reflection
privilege
growth
creativity
Mood
contemplative
determined
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career development
- artistic practice
- personal finance
- mentorship
Key Concepts
identity
skill development
self‑actualization
Questions to Reflect On
- How does privilege shape your sense of achievement?
- What steps can you take to refine your talents now?
A Different Perspective
Even with advantage, effort is required to achieve true mastery.
![“I sometimes worried that the more instinctive forms of love were not so available to you. That easy maternal devotion, for instance, that seemed so natural in some women, and which, as we spoke of from time to time, was something you had to struggle to feel. [p. 189]” quote by Sue Miller](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/026/sue-miller-18553_love_i-sometimes-worried-that-the-more-instin_1477935.jpg)
