What We Wish For
I continue to be inspired by The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry. Patti has knocked it out of the park again with this novel. One of the ways I rate literary works is to consider how deeply the work makes me think. Patti’s work always has me pondering areas that end up helping me personally and professionally. Yesterday, the phrase, “Sometimes we don’t really want what we wish for” jumped out at me. This was part of an interaction between protagonist, Clara Harrington, and her daughter, Wynnie, after arriving in London to retrieve a duffle bag containing important papers written by her late mother. Here is the entire interaction:
“Are you nervous, Mama?” Wynnie asked without turning around. “I am.” I went to stand beside her. “Sometimes we don’t really want what we wish for.” “Wynnie, where did you hear something like that?” “The Middle Place,” she said. “Ah.” I exhaled. “Yes.”
This got me to reflect on the idea that our desires can be complex and may not align with our true needs or circumstances. Ever wished for something and when the wish came true wonder why you made that wish or regret the desire completely? It suggests that what we think we want—such as success, relationships, material gain, or certain experiences—might come with challenges or sacrifices that we hadn’t fully considered. Just because something seems appealing at first glance doesn’t mean it will bring us happiness or fulfillment when we actually attain it. This theme encouraged me, and now I hope you, to reflect on personal aspirations and recognize that sometimes the pursuit of a wish might lead to unexpected consequences.
Byron's Babbles 
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