I just read a poem by the beloved Erma Bombeck (February 21, 1927 – April 22, 1996) and discovered that today is her birthday. So, in her memory, here is the poem:

If I Had My Life to Live Over
by Erma Bombeck

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.