It is so self-conscious, so apparently moral, simply to step aside from the gaps where the creeks and winds pour down, saying, I never merited this grace, quite rightly, and then to sulk along the rest of your days on the edge of rage. I won’t have it. The world is wilder than that in all directions, more dangerous and bitter, more extravagant and bright.
[Annie Dillard]

[me]: [offers dollar amount for car]
[used-car salesman]: Oh, the lot attendant couldn’t buy it for that. The CEO couldn’t buy it for that. [Pause.] You know, I should tell you, when I was back in the manager’s office talking to them, I found out that they spent more on it than they should have, since we bought it from the head mechanic’s parents… so actually, and I’m not sure I’m supposed to tell you this, but we’re in it for more than that.
[my dad] [straight-faced, with what sounds like genuine compassion]: You know, we feel for you all at the dealership. [Pause.] That’s a shame you spent more on it than you should have.