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Their thoughts were remarkably alike, as they worked silently toghether. This is what I want to do forever, each one thought. Rise in the morning, come to the mill, and work all day with him beside me. Never mind that the wish was impossible. Never mind that they might never see each other again, once the boy left for his apprenticeship back in the place of his birth. That only added to the sweetness of the moment, which would soon become a memory, would soon become a dream.

Orson Scott Card#511

TimeMemoryFriendshipWorkSeparation

About this quote

What does it mean?
Shared work and silent companionship can create deep bonds even when the future promises separation.
In plain terms
Working together makes a moment special even if it won't last.
What can you take from it?
Cherish shared moments regardless of their duration.

Where it applies

  • starting a job
  • parting ways
  • working with friends

Putting it to work

  • value the present
  • document shared moments

Questions to consider

  • What moment do you wish you could keep?
  • How do you handle goodbyes?

Another view

Some relationships thrive better without the pressure of permanence.

More from Orson Scott Card

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  3. Everything possible to be believed is an image of truth' and the words did pierce him, and he understood them, though he could not have put in words what it wa…

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