"The mother-child relationship is paradoxical and, in a sense, tragic. It requires the most intense love on the mother's side, yet this very love must help the child grow away from the mother, and to become fully independent."
--Erich Fromm

And yet, we bemoan the empty nest syndrome. Paradoxical, indeed.

When Megan gave me this book, she said about 90% could apply to me, and as I read, I can see what she means. If she can see 90%, then I guess I did a pretty good job. Oh, yes, on the independent part, I did a mighty fine job! You've heard the expression "Independent as a Missouri mule"?

So. In future ramblings here, I'm going to share some of the quotes. One thousand? That'll give me plenty of meat for future subjects.

For today I'll share one more quote. Calvin Trillin's column used to appear in the Sacramento Bee. He hasn't been around for quite awhile, but I surely did enjoy his columns when they appeared. Here's his observation:

"The most remarkable thing about my mother is that for 30 years she served the family nothing but leftovers. The original meal has never been found."

There'll be some Erma Bombeck, too.

Shalom