This quote, from Betty Smith's "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," encapsulates a poignant sentiment about the loss of innocence and the inevitable changes that come with maturation. Growing up often brings a clash between youthful idealism and the harsh realities of adulthood. The magic and simplicity that characterize childhood can seem to fade away under the burden of responsibilities, societal expectations, and personal challenges. What was once wondrous and full of possibility sometimes becomes complicated, tinted by disillusionment and compromise.

However, this perceived "ruining" can also be viewed as the necessary transformation that allows individuals to develop resilience, wisdom, and understanding. Although the process might involve painful realizations and loss of certain naïveté, it also offers opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and deeper appreciation of life’s complexities. The quote invites us to reflect on the bittersweet nature of growing up—a journey filled with both gains and losses.

In essence, the statement captures a universal experience: the tension between the yearning to preserve the simplicity of childhood and the unavoidable progression toward maturity. It resonates with many who mourn the end of innocence but also acknowledges that growth is an intrinsic part of the human experience.