The quote reflects on the author's regrets about not appreciating her body during her younger years. In her thirties, she was fixated on her perceived flaws, like her "square hips" from pregnancy, while overlooking the overall health and functionality of her body. The realization that she failed to value her body when it was in its prime highlights a common struggle many face regarding body image and self-acceptance. This perspective emphasizes the importance of gratitude for one's health and physical abilities at different life stages.

As the author ages, she encounters physical ailments that serve as a stark contrast to her earlier feelings of dissatisfaction. She recognizes that her body was functioning well in her thirties and forties, yet she did not appreciate it at the time, fixating instead on minor imperfections. This reflection conveys a deeper message about self-acceptance and the fleeting nature of youth and health. It resonates with the idea that acknowledging and valuing our bodies can lead to greater contentment as we navigate through life.