"If you do one good thing, that doesn't define you either. Being around the kids in the juvenile center, they were engaging, they made us laugh but they were there for doing something terrible"

In this quote, Ryan Gosling is highlighting the complexity of humanity and the concept that one action does not specify an individual totally. He is specifically referencing his experience with children in a juvenile center, who regardless of being appealing and able to make others laugh, have also dedicated major offenses. This quote acts as a tip that individuals are diverse and can not be decreased to a single action or label. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding and empathy towards those who have actually made mistakes, as they are still capable of favorable qualities and should have a chance at redemption.