The quote reflects a deep sense of nostalgia and loss. It highlights the changes in a person's appearance over time, particularly focusing on the woman's longer hair and the fine lines on her face that signify the passage of time. These lines represent the countless experiences and stories she has lived through, emphasizing the emotional weight carried in her expressions.

The speaker's acknowledgment of not being present for these moments adds a layer of regret. It conveys a longing to have shared in her history and to understand the depth of her life. This sentiment resonates with the themes of family connections and the impact of absence that Jodi Picoult often explores in her works.