Whenever we changed schools, we had to make a new set of friends. At the time, of course, I hated it. But looking back now, I'm really glad I did, because it forces independence on you.

In this quote, Patrick deWitt reflects on the experience of constantly changing schools during his childhood and how it shaped his sense of independence. He admits that at the time, he disliked the process of having to make new friends every time he moved, as it created feelings of discomfort and disruption. However, with hindsight, he appreciates how this challenge forced him to develop the ability to navigate social situations independently, helping him grow as an individual.

DeWitt's statement highlights the value of adversity in building resilience and self-reliance. Constantly having to adapt to new environments and make new connections can be difficult, but it can also push individuals out of their comfort zones. For deWitt, this experience provided a foundation for developing independence, a quality that helped him become more self-sufficient in various aspects of life.

The mention of making new friends each time they moved also speaks to the social and emotional skills that deWitt had to cultivate in order to succeed in different settings. Over time, he learned how to adapt to new situations, connect with different people, and become more confident in his ability to manage change. These skills are essential for personal growth and are often developed through challenging experiences like those he faced during his childhood.

Ultimately, deWitt’s reflection on his childhood experiences emphasizes the long-term benefits of facing discomfort and being forced into situations that require independence. While changing schools may have been unpleasant at the time, it proved to be a valuable lesson in developing the self-sufficiency and adaptability that are key to navigating life’s challenges.