Final answer:
Jacob's giving away of his once-beloved recliner illustrates the decline in sentimental value, reflecting changes in personal attachments over time as life circumstances evolve.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jacob's scenario illustrates the decline in sentimental value of a special belonging. As time passed and circumstances changed, the recliner that once held significance for Jacob lost its emotional appeal and utility, prompting him to give it away. Typically, possessions that are cherished for their sentimental value can eventually lose their importance to us, especially as our lives evolve. This concept echoes the broader theme of how personal values and attachments can shift over time, often influenced by experiences or changes in one's life situation.