The quote from Jeannette Walls' "The Glass Castle" reflects the lasting impact of receiving welfare on an individual's identity and social perception. It suggests that once someone relies on government assistance, it alters their self-image and how others view them. The burden of being labeled as a charity case can lead to ongoing feelings of stigma, regardless of future achievements or independence.

Walls emphasizes that the experience of welfare is not just a temporary state; it leaves deep emotional scars that can affect a person for life. This statement highlights the challenges faced by those who have been in need of assistance, illustrating that societal judgments can linger even after one has moved on from that phase of life. The quote speaks to the broader themes of poverty, resilience, and the struggle for self-identity in the face of societal perceptions.