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Michael believed longer than the other boys, though they jeered at him; so he was with Wendy when Peter came for her at the end of the first year. She flew away with Peter in the frock she had woven from leaves and berries in the Neverland, and her one fear was that he might notice how short it had become; but he never noticed, he had so much to say about himself. She had looked forward to thrilling talks with him about old times, but new adventures had crowded the old ones from his mind.

J. M. Barrie#32

ChildhoodGrowthMemoryChange

About this quote

What does it mean?
Childhood memories fade as adults prioritize new experiences over past connections.
In plain terms
New adventures replace old memories when one grows up.
What can you take from it?
Memories fade as life moves forward.

Where it applies

  • reunion
  • reflection
  • loss

Putting it to work

  • document memories
  • accept change
  • cherish moments

Questions to consider

  • What old memory fades fast?
  • What crowds out your past?

Another view

Some people hold onto old memories longer than others.

More from J. M. Barrie

  1. When a new baby laughs for the first time a new fairy is born, and as there are always new babies there are always new fairies. They live in nests on the tops …

    Permalink to quote #31
  2. 'Why can't you fly now, mother?' 'Because I am grown up, dearest. When people grow up they forget the way.' 'Why do they forget the way?' 'Because they are no …

    Permalink to quote #33
  3. 'If you believe,' he shouted to them, 'clap your hands; don't let Tink die.' Many clapped. Some didn't. A few beasts hissed. The clapping stopped suddenly; as …

    Permalink to quote #30

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