Content Warning: This section of the guide references suicide.

“If I could be frank with you, I would encourage you to think twice before volunteering. I say this for your sake as well as mine. Because the volunteer program has been nothing but a strain on the center. […] Each one of them arrives here simply beaming from their own good deed, but none of them lasts out the month because the reality of the situation here is thornier than they can comprehend. You will never, for example, be thanked; but you will be criticized, scrutinized, and verbally abused.”

Maria discourages Bob from volunteering at the senior center out of concern for his well-being, as past experiences of volunteers have not been favorable. Thus, Bob’s persistence in wanting a volunteer job sets up the likelihood of conflict. It also shows his sudden drive toward socialization in his old age, highlighting The Impact of Relationships and Human Connection. Bob feels his life is lacking in some way and understands that connecting with others will be fulfilling.

“In truth, though, he was moved by Maria’s assessment of his character. The functional purpose he’d known in his professional life had been put away when he’d retired, but now that cold piece of his person came back to life.”

Bob’s unique traits of being disciplined and fastidious are not often valued by others and come across as eccentric and anti-social. That Maria values them is a sign to Bob that he can achieve some sort of meaning from volunteering at the senior center, speaking to Work and the Discovery of Life’s Purpose. In the first few chapters, Bob begins a journey toward understanding what he needs to feel fulfilled and happy without his career.

“Bob waited through the remainder of that day and evening for the multitude of independent emotions inspired by the news of Ethan’s death to form a whole, but it wasn’t until the next morning that they coalesced and he understood he was experiencing a righteousness. He didn’t believe in God or fate or karma or luck, even, but he couldn’t help feeling Ethan’s death was in reply to his, Ethan’s betrayal; and he couldn’t pretend that he wished Ethan was still alive.”

Though Ethan’s betrayal of Bob occurred decades ago, the hurt that Ethan caused Bob is still present. When Ethan dies unexpectedly via an accident, Bob cannot help but feel that this act is punishment for Ethan’s actions and therefore warranted. This quote reveals the complicated feelings Bob has for his former beset friend.