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 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 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.

~ In memory of Erma Bombeck who lost her
fight with cancer ~