Final answer:
The question speaks to the contemplation of missed opportunities and life choices as seen in literature. It revolves around reflection and decisions determining life's trajectory, emphasizing the impact of actions taken or not.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question touches on the theme of missed opportunities and the recognition of one's life slipping by. This theme is prevalent in various literary contexts and is associated with reflection, life choices, and the consequences of those choices. Whether it's the choice of engaging in the lottery, as Maria Macapa suggests, or Mrs. Penn's contemplation of unsolicited opportunities as guideposts, they both illustrate the importance of decisions in shaping our lives.
Certain narratives, like that of Calixta, highlight the discovery of self-expression through defying societal norms. Similarly, Jane's challenge to set realistic goals or the bold decision to move to another city as seen in the examples, all underline the significant impact of choices made or not made.
Life is often compared to a journey with many crossroads and paths to choose from. Recognizing the weight of each decision, whether to take action or let an opportunity pass, is crucial in determining life's trajectory. Consequently, the awareness of these missed instances can prompt a change in direction, aspiration, and better goal-setting strategies to accommodate new pursuits.