In her memoir "The Glass Castle," Jeannette Walls emphasizes the fleeting nature of material possessions through a poignant quote about valuing experiences over things. The essence of the quote suggests that material belongings may become discarded and insignificant with time, but the meaningful memories we create, symbolized by 'stars,' endure long after the physical items are gone. This perspective encourages readers to focus on what truly matters in life.

Walls' narrative illustrates her challenging upbringing, marked by poverty and instability, contrasting it with the lasting importance of relationships and personal growth. The quote serves as a reminder that while material wealth can fade, the emotional and spiritual richness gathered through life experiences is timeless and invaluable.