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.

                    ~ Erma Bombeck ~
        (1927 -- 1996, American Humorist, Author)