Sunday, July 23, 2006

If I Had My Life To Live Over

This was written by Erma Bombeck when she found out she had cancer. My Aunt Judy put a copy in a family booklet she made and gave each of us yesterday. It hit home with me and I hope it will help you stop and think.

If I had my life to live over
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 have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
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 have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.
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 sat on the lawn with my children and not worried about grass stains.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show dirt or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance to in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said "later. Now go wash up for dinner"
There would have been more I love yous. More I'm sorry's
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. Stop sweating the small stuff. Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what. Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who DO love us. Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with. And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, as well as spiritually. Life is too short to let it pass you by. We only have one shot at this and then it's gone. I hope you all have a blessed day.

4 comments:

Miss Robyn said...

Peggy - I have read this before, it is good to re-read it every now and then. I am one who has terrible trouble with worrying about why some don't like me. thanks for reminding me that it is not that important. blessings & bliss to you dear friend xoxo

Laurie said...

Bravo Peggy ! I know I don't stop often enough to count my blessings.

Ramblins of a middle-aged goddess said...

yes I have read this before and I guess we all need to do what she says because AFTER all it is right...Sandy

Ramblins of a middle-aged goddess said...

yes I have read this before and I guess we all need to do what she says because AFTER all it is right...Sandy