My ace in the hole as a human being used to be my capacity for remembering birthdays. I worked at it. Whenever I made a new friend, I made a point of finding out his or her birthday early on, and I would record it in my Filofax calendar.

The quote "My ace in the hole as a human being used to be my capacity for remembering birthdays. I worked at it. Whenever I made a new friend, I made a point of finding out his or her birthday early on, and I would record it in my Filofax calendar" by Susan Orlean reveals how a simple, thoughtful gesture like remembering someone’s birthday can be a powerful tool for building and maintaining relationships. Orlean refers to this skill as her "ace in the hole," meaning it was a personal strength that helped her connect with others and make a lasting impression. By remembering and acknowledging important dates like birthdays, she was able to show thoughtfulness and consideration, which she valued deeply in her relationships.

The origin of this quote comes from Susan Orlean, a well-known journalist and author, celebrated for her work in publications like The New Yorker and her books such as The Orchid Thief. Orlean’s quote reflects her appreciation for small, meaningful actions that nurture connections. In this case, remembering birthdays was her way of showing care and attentiveness, emphasizing the importance of personal touch in her relationships with others. Her reference to using a Filofax underscores the organizational aspect of this effort, showing that she was intentional about keeping track of these important details.

Orlean’s words also speak to the value of effort in maintaining relationships. By making the conscious choice to learn and remember birthdays, she turned this practice into a way of strengthening bonds with new friends. It wasn’t just about remembering a date, but about showing that she valued and thought of them enough to take the time to record and celebrate their special day. This effort, according to Orlean, was a way to demonstrate kindness and build deeper connections.

In a broader sense, this quote highlights the importance of thoughtfulness, organization, and intentionality in relationships. While we may not all have the same knack for remembering birthdays, Orlean’s reflection serves as a reminder that small acts of consideration can go a long way in showing people that they are valued and appreciated. It encourages us to find our own "ace in the hole" that helps us connect with and care for those around us in meaningful ways.