"I've learned to look like I'm listening to long confusing plots of cartoons and comic books when I'm actually sound asleep or making grocery shopping lists in my head"

This quote by Patricia Heaton speaks to the significance of being able to appear mindful even when one is not. It suggests that sometimes it is essential to place on a program of interest in order to maintain relationships or to appear courteous. Heaton implies that she has mastered the art of appearing to listen to long and complicated stories, even when she is actually sound sleeping or considering something else. This might be translated as an indication of maturity, as it recommends that Heaton is able to put the requirements of others prior to her own. It likewise speaks with the importance of having the ability to multitask, as Heaton is able to make grocery shopping lists in her head while seeming taking note. Eventually, this quote talks to the importance of having the ability to appear engaged even when one is not.