IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
>
>(Written after she found out she was dying from cancer.)
>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 invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained,
>or 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 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 grass stains.
>I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more
>while watching life.
>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 realized 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 you(s);"
>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, and emotionally. I hope you
>have a blessed day.
Crystal "Mine" Peaceful
- 16 years, 9 months, 12 days ago