Mindy Kaling reflects on the fleeting nature of childhood and family time in her book "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?" She highlights that during the formative years, individuals often take family for granted, unaware that this period is limited to about eighteen years. The sentiment emphasizes how quickly life progresses and how adulthood can shift priorities away from family interactions.

The realization of this time constraint leads to a sense of nostalgia and a desire to cherish those moments spent with loved ones. Kaling's quote captures the essence of growing up, where the transition to independence often results in less time available for family, underscoring the importance of valuing these relationships while they still can be nurtured.