Something Lost, Something Gained: Reflections on Life, … by Hillary Clinton – A Personal Journey
I won’t lie; I had the publication date of Something Lost, Something Gained marked on my calendar. After devouring Hard Choices, I was eagerly anticipating Hillary Clinton’s latest reflections, particularly on moving past her presidential dreams. Upon release day, I practically raced to Libby to snag a copy, eager to dive into her mindset about resilience and loss, and boy, did this book deliver.
From the very first chapter, Clinton grabs your attention, recounting a pivotal moment when a former senior FBI official finally apologized for the Comey announcement that rattled her campaign. My heart sank as I read her fierce, one-liner response: "I would have been a great president." Oof! That punch of raw honesty left me gripping my chest, reflecting on the depths of disappointment and the strength it takes to move forward. This book exemplifies how personal experiences remain etched in our lives, despite the passage of time.
While some readers may have grumbled about Clinton’s candid mentions of Trump, I found that her insights provided the catharsis many of us yearn for in today’s tumultuous political landscape. She succinctly states, “if he’s going to keep running…then a person who has spent much of her life championing democracy is probably going to have something to say about it.” And she didn’t hold back!
The book skillfully integrates personal anecdotes with broader themes, such as women’s rights and democracy. Clinton shares touching stories about her friendships, particularly with other women. In a chapter about her mother, I was struck by the profound intimacy as she reflects on their last home together: "I am not ready to give up my mother. Or this old house she called home." It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply, evoking memories of my own family’s legacy.
Hillary’s writing balances poignancy with sharp observation, showcasing her commitment to advocacy. Pulling back the curtain on her life, she conveys how personal her policy interests are—women’s and children’s rights matter to her, fundamentally intertwining with who she is. One evocative quote from her speaks volumes: “around the world, women’s rights are often among the first things authoritarians target.” It’s a clarion call wrapped in urgency, reminding us that these realities are not distant; they are tied to our collective humanity.
One delightful takeaway from the book is her long acknowledgments section—ten pages dedicated to friends and colleagues, revealing the importance of these relationships throughout her journey. Clinton embodies a tireless spirit, always striving to "do all the good that [she] can," yet managing to nurture an extensive support network.
I wholeheartedly recommend Something Lost, Something Gained to readers who appreciate memoirs that balance personal growth with broader social issues. It’s a treasure trove of insights and reflections that remind us of our shared struggles and hopes. Hillary’s journey, marked by both triumphs and losses, ultimately left me feeling empowered and reflective. As I closed the book, I found myself pondering my own dreams, relationships, and the resilience inherent in moving forward—even when faced with loss.
In summary, this book didn’t just inform; it resonated. It’s a heartfelt invitation to reflect on what we gain and lose throughout our lives, and the meaningful connections that help us weather any storm.
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