Meaning: This quote by Candice Bergen, an accomplished actress, humorously captures the profound joy and significance of becoming a mother later in life. At first glance, the phrase "the greatest thing since sliced bread" may seem like a simple, colloquial expression, but upon closer examination, it reveals a deep sense of gratitude and wonderment. In the context of Bergen's personal experience, it signifies the immeasurable value and delight that her daughter brought into her life, despite the timing of her motherhood journey.

Candice Bergen's career in the entertainment industry has been marked by numerous achievements, including her role as the iconic television character Murphy Brown. However, it is her candid reflections on motherhood that have resonated with many individuals. Bergen became a mother at the age of 39, which was considered relatively late for starting a family at the time. This delayed entry into motherhood allowed her to fully appreciate and cherish the experience, leading her to express such heartfelt sentiments about her daughter.

The phrase "the greatest thing since sliced bread" is an idiomatic expression used to convey a high level of admiration and appreciation for something or someone. Its origins can be traced back to the 1920s, a time when pre-sliced bread became a popular and convenient household staple. The invention of pre-sliced bread revolutionized the way people consumed bread, making it more accessible and easier to use. As a result, the expression "the greatest thing since sliced bread" emerged as a lighthearted way to praise innovations or individuals that were considered extraordinary or invaluable.

When applied to the context of motherhood, particularly in Bergen's case, the quote takes on a deeply personal and emotional significance. It reflects the profound impact that her daughter had on her life, bringing immeasurable joy and fulfillment. Bergen's choice of words conveys a sense of awe and gratitude, emphasizing the exceptional nature of the bond between a mother and her child. By characterizing her daughter as "the greatest thing since sliced bread," Bergen effectively communicates the immense happiness and wonder that parenthood brought into her life, despite the timing of her journey into motherhood.

In today's society, the concept of motherhood has evolved, and the age at which women choose to start families has become more diverse. Women like Candice Bergen, who embrace motherhood at a later stage in life, bring a unique perspective to the experience. They often express a heightened sense of appreciation and fulfillment, as they have had the opportunity to pursue other aspects of their lives before embarking on the journey of motherhood. Bergen's quote serves as a poignant reminder that the timing of motherhood does not diminish the profound impact and joy that a child can bring into a parent's life.

In conclusion, Candice Bergen's quote beautifully captures the profound significance of becoming a mother later in life and the immeasurable joy that her daughter brought into her life. The expression "the greatest thing since sliced bread" conveys a deep sense of gratitude and wonderment, emphasizing the exceptional nature of the bond between a mother and her child. Bergen's words serve as a heartfelt testament to the transformative power of parenthood, regardless of the timing of its arrival.