The quote from "Drums of Autumn" by Diana Gabaldon highlights the profound impact of time and experience on human emotions. In life, challenges and hardships can diminish one's capacity for compassion, suggesting that while it may be a natural feeling, it is vulnerable to erosion under difficult circumstances. This reflects a broader truth about human resilience and the ways in which external pressures can shape our emotional landscapes.

Moreover, the quote underscores the tension between the inherent desire for empathy and the harsh realities of life that can lead individuals to become more guarded. It prompts readers to consider how personal struggles and societal influences can alter one's ability to connect with others, emphasizing that compassion, while valuable, is not immune to the trials of existence.