I’ve lived most of my life inescapably aware that it is precious and finite. - Sonia Sotomayor

In such cases, one can feel powerless and wonder why the others were not persuaded by what one took to be so salient in the case. There is, on the other hand, a singularly satisfying feeling that one gets when one has arrived at a particularly penetrating analysis and is able to convince both of one's colleagues of its merit.

I didn’t entirely trust this new reality, my mother’s transformation included.

So much is communicated in tone of voice, in subtleties of expression, and in body language.