If I Had My Life to Live Over
A tribute to Erma Bombeck, who wrote this after she found out she had cancer.
The past six-plus years have challenged us all as lies are exposed, prices for most things doubled, and life as we’ve known it changed so much we barely recognize the world we live in today. Yet we love and trust in the LORD, continue to see blessings, no matter how small, and believe with all our hearts that all will be well in God’s time.
When I ran across the following quote from Erma Bombeck, it reminded me of the simple wisdom she possessed that millions of people cherished throughout her life and thereafter. I hope this encourages and blesses you as much as it blesses me.
May her words of wisdom inspire you to dream new dreams and live life with gusto. Every day is truly a blessing worth thanking God for.
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 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. Stop sweating the small stuff.
Don’t worry about who doesn’t like you, who has more, or who’s doing what.
Instead, let’s cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.
Let’s think about what God HAS blessed us with. And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally. I hope you all have a blessed day.
Beautiful Women’s Month:
Age 3: She looks at herself and sees a Queen.
Age 8: She looks at herself and sees Cinderella.
Age 15: She looks at herself and sees an Ugly Sister (I can’t go to school looking like this!)
Age 20: She looks at herself and sees “too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly,” but decides she’s going out anyway.
Age 30: She looks at herself and sees “too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly,” but decides she doesn’t have time to fix it, so she’s going out anyway.
Age 40: She looks at herself and sees “clean,” and goes out anyway.
Age 50: She looks at herself and sees “I am,” and goes wherever she wants to go.
Age 60: She looks at herself and reminds herself of all the people who can’t even see themselves in the mirror anymore, goes out and conquers the world.
Age 70: She looks at herself and sees wisdom, laughter, and ability, goes out and enjoys life.
Age 80: She doesn’t bother to look. Just puts on a purple hat and goes out to have fun with the world.
~ Erma Bombeck
I have lived long enough to know deep in my soul the truth of Erma Bombeck’s words. Gratitude for every little thing impacts our lives in powerful ways.
Bless the ones you love.
Give what you can.
Embrace a new hobby.
Forget competition.
Drink the milkshake first.
If you’re searching for a path to gratitude and/or a reminder of what is most meaningful in life, read Last Best Year – A Short Guide to a Grateful Life and journal your way through A Guided Gratitude Journal.
I promise your life will never be the same. You will discover a joy and purpose that has, perhaps, eluded you in the past. Change your mindset. Change your life! And stay focused on God’s encouraging words. We CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens us! (Phil. 4:13).
Have a blessed week.
Donna
And I have a FREE GIFT for you that I pray will bless you each day.
45 Daily Ways to Express Gratitude and Grace
Download your printable, FREE copy and be someone’s blessing today.
Discover simple, meaningful ways to cultivate a more grateful heart with this free downloadable list of 45 Daily Ways to Express Gratitude and Grace by Donna Wyland. Rooted in faith, encouragement, and everyday joy, this inspiring collection offers gentle reminders to slow down, embrace God’s blessings, love others well, and live with greater peace and purpose. Perfect for printing, journaling, or sharing with a friend who could use a little encouragement today.
