I think that is why we stay close to our families, no matter how neurotic the members, how deeply annoying or dull- because when people have seen you at your worst, you don’t have to put on the mask as much.
Every family has a story, and I love that those stories are etched in sand rather than granite. That way we can change them. We can bury the lies and embrace the truth. And we can move forward.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Every family has a unique narrative that can evolve over time, allowing for personal growth and truth to emerge.
Diane Chamberlain's quote emphasizes the fluidity of family stories, suggesting that they are not set in stone like granite but are instead malleable like sand. This perspective allows families to confront and alter their histories, to let go of falsehoods, and to accept and celebrate truths that can foster growth and progression in their relationships. By moving forward without the weight of unchangeable narratives, families have the opportunity to shape their collective identity in a more positive and authentic way.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a family reunion, I shared Diane Chamberlain's quote to encourage openness about our shared history.
Similar quotes
I didn't have a father to deal with about boyfriends. I didn't have a father to show me how a man and woman relate in a family setting. Therefore, I have given over my life to mentoring young people. I'm adamant about young people who have been denied a father/daughter relationship.
I grew up within Italian-American neighborhoods, everybody was coming into the house all the time, kids running around, that sort of stuff, so when I finally got into my own area, so to speak, to make films, I still carried on.
That's my parenting style - 'Go watch the TV.' I'm one of 11 children, and my mother's parenting style was, 'There's the TV. Go watch it. Mommy's got 10 other people to take care of.'
I don't think anybody feels like they're a good parent. Or if people think they're good parents, they ought to think again.
If I were to give advice to young people, high-achieving young people for example, I’d have to say, don’t neglect your family. Politics is important, sitting at the head table is glamorous. Traveling around the world, trying to do something for world peace was wonderful. But family and friends and faith are what really matter in life. And I know that. I see it so clearly now.