In "An Affair to Remember" by Karen Hawkins, the author explores the tendency of individuals to avoid facing uncomfortable realities about themselves and their lives. This avoidance can manifest in various ways, as many individuals prefer to live in denial rather than confront issues that may be painful or challenging. By sidestepping these truths, they can maintain a semblance of comfort in their day-to-day existence.

Hawkins suggests that this phenomenon is widespread, indicating a shared human experience where people prioritize comfort over self-awareness. The ability to dodge difficult truths is portrayed as a common coping mechanism that can temporarily shield one from discomfort but ultimately leads to unresolved issues that may resurface later.