If I Had to Live My Life Over

I don't usually post items that can be found elsewhere on the Internet - but I received this one and it's worth reading. It's by the late Erma Bombeck. If you've never read any of her essays or books give them a try. She is still as funny and relevant as she ever was. She wrote this after she found out she was dying from cancer:

If I Had My Life to Live Over -
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 a 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 it the carpet was stained or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten 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 something 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 get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's" 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. Stop sweating the small stuff!