Oliver, success is usually a feeling of mere relief, where failure is pain. Happiness, you see, lies in neither, but in sticking to a daily ritual and becoming absorbed in something useful. When the war is over, even the greatest warriors do not exult. They go back to their garden or kitchen or library -- or school -- and resume life.(as said by Mrs. Pearson)

Summary

Mrs. Pearson's quote emphasizes that true happiness does not solely come from external achievements or the absence of failure. Instead, it lies in maintaining a daily routine and finding fulfillment in engaging and meaningful activities. Success often elicits only temporary relief, whereas failure can cause ongoing pain. Mrs. Pearson suggests that even the most accomplished individuals realize that genuine contentment is derived from returning to the simple joys of everyday life, whether it be tending to a garden, cooking, reading, or continuing with education, rather than solely relying on external accomplishments for happiness.

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