I was deeply touched by this short (3-minute) video below — a simple experiment on a city sidewalk that gave passers-by the opportunity to write down their biggest regret. I shouldn’t have been surprised that in most cases—almost all cases—it was something they didn’t do, not something they did do.
Of course that got me thinking…
I’ve always maintained that regret is a wasted emotion. Why spend time and emotional energy on something from the past? “Look to this day, for it is life…” says the wonderful Sanskrit writing (see “Why Today is so important”).
And yet, we are humans who think about the past, and as I reflected on the video below, I had to admit that for the most part, it was, indeed, things left undone that caused me more unease and disappointment in myself than anything I had ever done.
You know what I mean.
The person you didn’t call or write to and then you found out they had died…
The chance you had to do something really challenging and you were too scared…
The kindness you could have done, but it was too inconvenient…
The apology you thought about making, but they reached out to you first…
Take a deep breath. I still believe regret is a wasted emotion, but that’s no reason it can’t be an instructive one. I am resolving to pay more attention to those nudges to do things, practice random acts of kindness, and yes—even at my age—reach for the stars. I’d love to know your reaction to this video.
Can You Say Thank You Too Often? No!
Just beautiful Elizabeth. I have been on this train of thought lately.
Thanks so much, Carol. I’m glad this resonated with you as much as it did with me.
Thank you for this Elizabeth! Good reminder!
Thanks so much for reading and commenting, Laura.
And I am encouraged to do MORE!
Excellent! I hope we all take up that banner. Onward, ever onward!
I am not able to travel to Wales alone. But now I’m not so sure.
I am not able to pursue an education. Heck with that – I’m doing it.
I was not a great Mom. Now I’m an awesome grandmother.
I’ve not been a good friend sometimes. No longer. I’m good at being a good friend.
I’m not gonna be able to tap dance at my age. Stomped all over that bastard.
This is THE most significant post I’ve seen in years!
Wow, I am humbled and thrilled that you found it so significant, Karen, because I know you don’t say things you don’t mean. And your response is so inspiring. Life has thrown you more than your share of curves, and the woman I know is tough and resilient with a heart of gold. I’m proud to call you friend.
I find it difficult to regret anything. The mistakes I’ve made have led to lessons learned. Wrong turns led to the right path. A love that didn’t work led to a love that is strong and endearing and enduring. ????
Good for you, Pam. Your lovely comment reminds me of the country music song: “God bless the broken road that led me straight to you.” I have reflected on the lyrics of that song and find it can be taken from the perspective that “you” is a human lover or “you” is God.
I regret my foot getting caught in the spokes of the front wheel of my brother’s bicycle when I was riding on the handlebars and we were flying down Lockland Avenue.
Yikes, Andy! I believe you have once again shown you are not going to be part of the madding crowd…????. I’m not sure I want to hear the rest of that story…
That was absolutely great Elizabeth. Thank you for sharing.
What a treat to see you pop in here today, Mickey. Sure hope you are well and happy. Thanks so much for reading and leaving such a nice comment.