Herself, a day, an hour ago; and herself now. For we have every one of us felt how a very few minutes of the months and years called life, will sometimes suffice to place all time past and future in an entirely new light; will make us see the vanity or the criminality of the by-gone, and so change the aspect of the coming time that we look with loathing on the very thing we have most desired. A few moments may change our character for life, by giving a totally different direction to our aims and energies.
~ From Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell, 1848
Well, that is an ear full! Took me three times to really absorb the words and meaning. A powerful reflection. I am a fan of Elizabeth Gaskell. Thanks for sharing.
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My pleasure! That passage has always resonated with me. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
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