How does the story illustrate the theme of lost opportunities?

The story illustrates the theme of lost opportunities through the characters’ realization of the time they wasted neglecting their education and the French language. Franz, along with his classmates and the villagers, reflects on how they took their lessons for granted and failed to appreciate the value of learning until it was too late. M. Hamel’s poignant farewell serves as a stark reminder of the opportunities lost due to complacency and distraction, emphasizing the importance of valuing education while it is still available. This theme resonates deeply, highlighting how external circumstances can abruptly end opportunities that were once seen as commonplace.