I’d Pick More Daisies
By Nadine Stair, age 85
If I had my life to live over,
I’d try to make more mistakes next time.
I would relax. I would limber up.
I would be sillier than I have on this trip.
I would be crazier. I would be less hygienic.
I would take more chances, I would take more trips.
I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers,
and watch more sunsets.
I would burn more gasoline. I would eat more ice cream and less beans.
I would have more actual troubles and fewer imaginary ones.
You see, I am one of those people who lives
prophylactically and sensibly and sanely,
hour after hour, day after day.
Oh, I have had my moments
And if I had it to do over again, I’d have more of them.
In fact, I’d try to have nothing else.
Just moments,one after another.
Instead of living so many years ahead each day.
I have been one of those people who never go anywhere
without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a gargle, a
raincoat, and a parachute.
If I had to do it over again, I would go places and do things.
I’d travel lighter than I have.
If I had my life to live over, I would start barefooted
earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall.
I would play hooky more. I wouldn’t make such good grades
except by accident.
I would ride on merry-go-rounds.
I’d pick more daisies!
A friend died in a road traffic accident recently.
He was a year younger than me.
Pick More Daisies was his motto.
He lived life to the full, the consummate social animal, at home in any company.
Loud, bluff and convivial, but savouring every joyous moment.
His memorial service was attended by over 200 people, filling the church and its satellite hall beyond. From all walks of life and every age group, there were people whose lives he had affected in some way. Bringing people together was what he always did best.
I had not seen him for many years but the memories of our shared youth remain.
Party On! x
I’ve thought about if I somehow had a “do over.” I come to the conclusion that I would most likely make the same kind of mistakes again. I would need to be someone very different.
I know what you mean xl. That’s why I think it’s important to reflect upon the future and sometimes take the path that allows more pleasure and less possible monetary gain :)