About this quote

Reading connects private feelings to other people's lives. When you notice that, the sharp edge of loneliness eases. It won't sort out every problem, but it gives you a clearer spot to stand and think about who else felt the same thing. Who else has felt this, and what did they do next?

When to use it

• In my college lit seminar I told the group, "Reading that made me see my longings aren't just mine; people across time have felt them too."
• At a family dinner after my dad read a passage aloud I said, "That line made me feel less alone and more like I belong here with you."
• In a recovery support meeting I shared the passage and told everyone, "Hearing this reminded me that my longing for normalcy isn't only mine."
• When I led a team talk about storytelling at work I opened with the quote and said, "Stories help us trust one another because we want many of the same things."