"From childhood on I have had the dream of life lived as a sacrament... the dream implied taking life ritually as something holy"

In this quote, Bernard Berenson reveals his lifelong desire to view life as a sacred and meaningful experience. He explains this as a dream, suggesting that it is something he has actually always wished for however has not yet totally attained. By utilizing the word "sacrament," Berenson is drawing a parallel to religious routines and events, implying that he wishes to approach life with a similar respect and commitment. This dream also indicates a sense of purpose and intentionality in living, as he points out taking life "ritually" and seeing it as something holy. In general, Berenson's words communicate a deep longing for a more significant and spiritual presence.