Still, she refused to be tragic. She knew how to be happy for others. She knew she participated in the world as more than a womb.
-- Ona (Two Days Until the Wake)

Importance: In this quote, Ona is describing her aunt Matilde. Matilde is unable to have children, and has been infertile since she was a teenager. This narration reveals that Matilde does not subscribe to the attitude that women must have children to be 'whole' or 'useful.' She challenges the idea of infertility as "tragic" and chooses to be a role model for her sisters' children instead, and to be happy for the family she has. This is one of the traits that embodies Matilde as a kind and good-hearted person.

Sometimes a woman must weep.
-- Ona (One Day Until the Wake)

Importance: With this quote, Ona narrates Yadi's depression after Ant is sent to prison. After her first love is sent to prison, Yadi returns to the Dominican Republic to live...