Anne Truitt’s words, published as a collection of excerpts from her personal journal in 1982, remind us that real love means seeing and appreciating people for who they are. “The opposite of inattention is love,” she wrote. The renowned artist was known for her large-scale minimalist sculptures, but her written words convey a lesser-known aspect of her artistry, one full of wisdom and care for her fellow humans. 

Those who have the least are often the best qualified to determine what means the most. Betty Smith, a Williamsburg native and longtime tenement resident, reflected on her upbringing in her 1943 semi-autobiographical bestseller “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.” Smith’s novel explores the importance of tenacity and finding happiness amid hardship. This particular quote is spoken by Mary Rommely, the grandmother of Francie, the novel’s protagonist, as she discusses Francie’s aunts, who aren’t on speaking terms with one another. Mary’s comments offer a firm reminder that something as “simple” and “uncostly” as choosing to forgive someone else can yield a value that outweighs any material or financial prosperity. Whether it’s shown to a loved one, a stranger, or even oneself, forgiveness is a powerful tool at our disposal.