I first heard these words in 2008 on a podcast by Roy H. Williams. In the decade that has followed, these words have helped shape my thoughts, perspective and most importantly, my approach to life. They have helped free me to be more “me” and less someone else! As a result I have learned to enjoy life far more than I ever thought possible in spite of the difficulties that inevitably have arisen.
Here they are:
If I had my life to live over, I’d try to make more mistakes next time. I would relax. I would limber up. I would be sillier than I have been on this trip. I would be crazier. I would be less hygienic. I would take more chances. I would take more trips. I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers, watch more sunsets.
I would eat more ice cream and less beans.
I would have more troubles and fewer imaginary ones. You see, I am one of those people who lives prophylactically and sensibly and sanely, hour after hour, day after day.
Oh, I have had my moments and, if I had to do it over again, I’d have more of them. In fact, I’d try to have nothing else – just moments, one after another, instead of living so many years ahead each day.
I have been one of those people who never goes anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a gargle, a raincoat and a parachute.
If I had it to do over again, I would go and do and travel lighter.
If I had my life to live over, I would start barefooted earlier in the spring and stay that way until later in the fall. I would play hooky more. I would ride on more merry-go-rounds.
I’d pick more daisies.
(These words have been attributed to Nadine Stair, Don Herold, an unnamed monk and countless other authors. The only person that I’m sure didn’t write them is me. – Ron E. Paterik)
What about you? How would you complete the thought “If I had my life to live over again I’d….?”
Think about it. Talk about it. And then… do it!
Walking the path with you,
Ron