I would have talked less and
listened more. I would have invited friends over to dinner even
if the carpet was stained and the sofa faded. I would have eaten
the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about
the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble
about his youth. I would never have insisted the car windows be
rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased
and sprayed.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before
it melted in storage. I would have sat on the lawn with my
children and not worried about grass stains. I would have cried
and laughed less while watching television - and more while
watching life.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my
husband. I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of
pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't
there for the day.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical,
wouldn't show soil or was guaranteed to last a lifetime. Instead
of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished
every moment and realised that the wonderment growing inside me
was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said,
"Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would
have been more "I love yous".. more "I'm sorrys"..
but mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every
minute..look at it and really see it.. live it.. and never give
it back.
~ Erma Bombeck ~ (1927 -- 1996, American Humourist, Author)
Last Modified: 214th November 2003