What Life Are You Living?

This past week I had an interesting coffee conversation with a friend about "what kind of a lives" we were living. Especially in these times of economic stress it's quite common for people to re-examine their lives and think carefully about their priorities, so this conversation was both timely and apropos. We both shared highlights of our current life events including our careers, relationships, special "projects" or interests, and also our hopes and dreams for the future--a good time to pause and ponder, something I truly enjoy doing as much as possible!

When I returned to my desk I saw something that perfectly complimented our conversation. It was a small article from a newspaper written by an 85-year old woman about how she was reflecting on her life with a bit of remorse at the things she'd wish she'd done if she could live her life over--a letter to prompt its reader about the importance of opportunity and appreciation. Somehow I'd kept this clipping for many years and each time I found myself in a new job or new office, this piece of paper managed to make the journey along with me. I usually ended up hanging it somewhere within plain view so I could be reminded to focus on what's important when I'd lost focus.

This week I'd like to share that small, yet powerful, letter with you. May you also be reminded to take the opportunity and say, do, and experience what truly makes you happy.

Peace.

The Ambassador of Goodwill

If I Had My Life to Live Over

I'd like to make more mistakes next time.
I'd relax. I would limber up. I would be sillier
than I had been this trip. I would take fewer
things seriously. I would take more chances. I
would climb more mountains and swim more
rivers. I would eat more ice cream and less beans.
I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but
I'd have fewer imaginary ones.

You see, I'm one of those people who live sensibly
and sanely hour after hour, day after day. Oh, I've
had my moments, and if I had it to do 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 of each day.
I've been one of those persons who never goes
anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water
bottle, a raincoat, and a parachute. If I had to
do it again, I would travel lighter than I have.

If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot
earlier in the spring and stay that way later in
the fall. I would go to more dances. I would ride
more merry-go-rounds, I would pick more daisies.

Nadine Stair
85-years old
Louisville, Kentucky

Relax