Thursday, 16 April 2009

The Purple Hat...

I was sent this in an email today and it is something I have read before, but I feel it's well worth sharing here.
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.

5 comments:

~*Joni said...

Ann, thank you so much for sharing this with us! I have always loved this piece by her. I burn those candles that I used to save for decorations, and try to find laughter and joy in everything. What a great reminder during this post-Easter week! Have a wonderful day!! I'm wearing my pink elephant socks, so you know I will too. :D

pinky said...

OMG how true is all that, if only we could LISTEN!
Pinky

Chrissie said...

I'm sure there are people who haven't heard or read this before, so thanks for sharing it. It is SO true. Mind, I never was one to have a really tidy house! Maybe I'm on the right lines!
Chrissie

Max said...

Here Here!

Luv'n'Stuff
Max
xx

Maria Matter said...

Everytime I read this, I get teary eyed....it's so true!
Blessings, Maria

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