In "The Mermaid Chair," the narrator reflects on her life before meeting someone significant, expressing a sense of marvel at her own existence. She describes her previous life as constrained and monotonous, living in a way that lacked excitement or true fulfillment. Her days felt small and unremarkable, like tiny beads slipping through her fingers without any real enjoyment. This realization highlights how many people may not fully understand their own potential.

At the age of forty-two, the narrator comes to terms with her lack of significant achievements that left her breathless, recognizing this as a contributing factor to her dissatisfaction. She sees her chronic failure to surprise herself as a barrier to personal growth and fulfillment. This moment of introspection indicates a journey toward self-discovery and the importance of seizing opportunities to truly live and feel vibrantly.