This quote poignantly captures the nuanced nature of bitterness, transforming it from a traditionally negative emotion into a testament of having lived fully and deeply. Bitterness, often dismissed as something purely unpleasant to be avoided, is here framed as a 'privilege,' a bittersweet crown earned through the varied encounters of life. To 'savor bitterness' suggests a conscious acceptance and even appreciation of the harsher lessons that experience has bestowed upon us.

What resonates profoundly is the idea that bitterness is not merely an emotional residue of pain or loss but a marker of richness in one’s life journey. It implies that those who have never experienced bitterness might have also missed out on certain depths of suffering, learning, and ultimately growth. The advice to 'learn to prefer it' challenges us to shift our perspective and embrace the full spectrum of emotions that shape us, including those that bring discomfort.

Furthermore, the quote’s closing sentiment—that bitterness remains when all else is gone—hints at its durability as an emotional resource. In moments of desolation or when stripped of other comforts, bitterness can paradoxically become a companion, offering a sense of continuity and proof that one has endured. It urges a kind of stoic resilience, encouraging us to find value and even strength in bitterness rather than rejecting it outright.

Ultimately, this reflection invites a richer understanding of emotional complexity and honors the story that bitterness tells about our humanity. It calls on us to reclaim bitterness, not as a flaw, but as a cherished symbol of having truly lived.