The quote "Sometimes you have to get sicker before you can get better" from Jeannette Walls' memoir, "The Glass Castle," highlights the idea that personal growth often comes through suffering and struggle. In the context of her life, Walls showcases the difficulties and chaotic experiences of her upbringing, emphasizing that adversity can be a catalyst for healing and improvement. Such hardships force individuals to confront their realities and eventually seek a better path.

This quote resonates with a broader theme of resilience and transformation. It suggests that before one can experience healing and positive change, they might first endure pain or hardship. Walls' narrative exemplifies this, as she recounts the challenges of her childhood and how they shaped her into the person she is today. Embracing struggles can ultimately lead to profound personal development.