Emotionally Quote by Regina Calcaterra
““After I put on my coat, I turn and whisper to Camille: “Just a minute.” In the living room, I leave a wide space between myself and the recliner where Cookie’s sitting, knowing that distance from her is the only thing that has kept me both physically and emotionally safe. Wearing a blue flannel shirt, black stretch pants, and a scowl, she slowly meets my eyes. The TV’s reflection flashes off the lenses of her huge, shaded eyeglasses. “Good-bye,” I tell her. It comes out cold and flat. When she responds with silence, I nod. This is all I’ll get. Cherie opens the front door, and Camille and I exit with her. When the three of us get to the train station, we all break down in tears. It’s a cry of anger for our mother’s failure to take responsibility, for the unfairness of having had no say in choosing who brought us into this world . . . and for our relief knowing that soon she’ll be gone, for good.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Motherless Daughter, 2020
The narrator reflects on emotional distance as a protective barrier, confronting family trauma and grief.
In simple terms: She keeps distance to stay safe emotionally.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when distance protects and when it hinders healing.
Themes
family trauma
grief
emotional boundaries
Mood
sad
introspective
Type
narrative
emotional
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- therapy sessions
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
psychology
memory
loss
Questions to Reflect On
- What would happen if the barrier were removed?
- How can safe intimacy be rebuilt?
A Different Perspective
Distance can become isolation if not addressed.
