I remember it
As soon as I started reading, I remembered the story. Or at least remembered that I'd read it. Its a good story. One of those that's all too familiar to someone who spends any time outdoors.
Perceptions change greatly when lost or stressed due to conditions. Once I was backpacking with a group and ran out of water. In my dehydrated state I went from a fast up front hiker to the laggard in the back trying to keep up. First time it ever happened to me and I learned a lot from it. Now I watch for signs of dehydration in myself and fellow hikers.