In the prologue titled “Be Ready When the Luck Happens,” the author takes the reader back to a formative moment in the fall of 1965, a day filled with both struggle and profound growth. She had recently begun dating Jeffrey Garten, a charismatic and adventurous sophomore at Dartmouth College, and was visiting him on what she hoped would be a simple, laid-back occasion. However, Jeffrey had other plans. Instead of a relaxed day together, he suggested a hike up Balch Hill, located in Hanover, New Hampshire—a seemingly small but intimidating mountain. To the author, what she envisioned as a peaceful visit quickly transformed into a physically demanding challenge. She had arrived at Dartmouth dressed for a social gathering, eager to enjoy a pleasant experience, but Jeffrey’s adventurous spirit introduced her to a very different reality.

As the hike began, the author, then seventeen years old, felt both physically and emotionally unprepared. She reluctantly wore a pair of Jeffrey’s blue jeans, a gesture that felt intimate and a symbol of their growing relationship. Yet, as the hill’s incline steepened, she quickly grew tired and found herself struggling to keep up, overwhelmed by the effort and discomfort. This discomfort was not only physical but psychological—shaped by the strict and demanding environment in which she was raised, where resistance or opposition was often met with harsh punishment. Despite her deep desire to please Jeffrey, she found herself unable to continue up the hill and declared that she had reached her limit. It was the first time she had felt the need to assert herself, standing up for her own boundaries, despite the pressure to meet expectations.

Jeffrey, sensing her frustration, playfully urged her to keep moving forward, even trying to nudge her up the hill. Rather than complying with his suggestion, the author decided to take matters into her own hands. Instead of continuing the difficult climb straight up, she took a different approach, choosing to walk back and forth across the path in an attempt to make the journey feel less daunting. Anticipating disappointment or frustration from Jeffrey, she prepared herself for a negative reaction. However, to her surprise, Jeffrey responded not with anger but with laughter, appreciating her ingenuity and determination. His reaction was a moment of revelation—her own approach to the challenge had been acknowledged and accepted, not judged, by him. His humor, support, and understanding brought a sense of ease to the situation, showing her that challenges could be overcome with patience, laughter, and mutual respect.

From this pivotal experience, the author extracted two critical lessons that would guide her in the years to come. The first was the realization that life often presents obstacles that feel insurmountable, much like the steep climb up Balch Hill. Yet, these challenges can be faced with a positive mindset, and by approaching them from a different angle, they become more manageable. The second lesson was the importance of having a supportive and encouraging partner who provides not just help but a sense of comfort and laughter. Jeffrey’s ability to laugh with her rather than at her and his encouragement through a tough moment became a cornerstone of their relationship, teaching her that love and partnership were about more than just romantic gestures—they were about supporting each other through life’s hurdles.

Reflecting on this moment, the author realizes how it shaped her views on relationships and personal growth. The experience forged a bond between her and Jeffrey, which would eventually lead them to marriage three years later. The prologue sets the stage for the rest of the memoir, highlighting themes of self-discovery, independence, and the importance of having a supportive partner. The author’s willingness to share this early moment of vulnerability invites readers to consider their own experiences with challenges and personal growth, setting the tone for the rest of the narrative. Through this story, the author encourages readers to embrace the unpredictable journey of life with resilience, humor, and the right people by their side. The prologue ultimately becomes a reflection on the value of love, independence, and the power of having someone who supports you when the going gets tough.