The quote from Barbara Kingsolver's "The Poisonwood Bible" suggests that life's journey can be challenging and may not always be a celebratory experience. It implies that even though you might face difficult times, it's essential to maintain a positive attitude and move forward with determination. The metaphor of getting down the street indicates that progress is inevitable, but the approach you take makes a significant difference.

By recommending to "throw your shoulders back and pick up the pace," the author encourages resilience and courage in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the importance of facing obstacles head-on rather than succumbing to despair. Ultimately, the message is about embracing life and its ups and downs with strength and commitment, even when the path is rough.