I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained and the house a mess with dog hairs sticking to the chairs

I would have let let children eat popcorn in the  living room and worried much less about the toys spread around the floor.

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 coloured candle sculpted like stars before it melted in storage.

I would have enjoyed a picnic 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 gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would stop if I wasn't at work for the day.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show stains or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment realizing 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 wash your hands for dinner."

There would have been more "I love you's" and 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.

(Unknown author)