In "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoult, the concept of life is compared to a tide. Initially, the small struggles and pains we encounter may seem insignificant, leading us to underestimate their cumulative effect. As time passes, we can reflect on how these challenges have shaped and transformed us, often revealing the depth of pain we have endured.

This metaphor highlights the gradual nature of life's impact, suggesting that while individual experiences may appear minor or inconsequential at first, they contribute to a significant change over time. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging both the hardships and the resilience that comes from living through them.