Describe symbolism in Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson

One major theme in the novel is priorities..... namely, work is not a priority. Patterson addresses this theme in the story of the five balls. Four of the balls are glass..... symbolic of those things in life that are fragile and easily broken..... the things that can ruin both a life and a family. The fifth ball, however, is a symbol of work. It is made of rubber and is something from which everyone can bounce back.