First, how about a Twainism:
We should be careful to get out of an experience all the wisdom that is in it — not like the cat that sits on a hot stove lid.
She will never sit down on a hot lid again — and that is well; but also she will never sit down on a cold one anymore.
Mark Twain (1835 - 1910) American Author
There is that. Also, if you want whiny navel-gazing, read on…
