They say that a life without regrets is a life well lived. I’m not so sure about that. Looking back on my seventy-four years, there are a few things I wish I had done differently.
When I was getting my Master’s degree at the University of Texas in 1996, my professor suggested that I continue for a PhD. She liked my research and thought I could parlay it into a dissertation. Without question I said no. I was too scared. It was a bigger vision than I could imagine for myself. I was raised in a time when women were given very low expectations.
Another time I was offered the position of manager for the clinic where I worked. Again, I turned it down. I had never been a “manager” (only of a home, and three kids, all while attending graduate school full-time.) I wish someone had offered me help, training and a boost to my self confidence.
As a woman of a certain era, I fought hard for every opportunity. I was the only girl of five children, and the only one to graduate from college, bought and paid for by myself.
It was impossible not to let the fear rule me. Fear was built into every story I was told, every underestimation, every time I was reminded that my place was in the home.
So yes I have a few regrets.
Today I am content with the way things turned out. I have an amazing partner, a beautiful home and a peaceful existence. If I had done any of the things I now regret, it might have turned out quite differently.
So truthfully I have no regrets. At least that’s what I tell myself.
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DOS TORTAS
the adventures of dos tortas 
oh my Alex – i am on my way out of the hotel in seattle – flew in last night late and will drive to Eugene today. So all i have time for is to say “me too” !!!! Every opportunity i had in my life that was “big”, i didn’t take bc of fear – bc of what i was always told- bc i didn’t think i could do it. Oh my …
but like you, i like my life now…
thank you for this, for your blog and your always impactful honesty – with love, Lorrie
Lorrie Jones
Simple Serenity
simpleserenity.comhttp://simpleserenity.com/
253.312.3117
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Maybe next time.
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Life is full of ‘what ifs?’ I try not to dwell too much. Like you, I’m grateful for what I have now. Regrets? Too few to mention 😉
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We definitely are living a good life.
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I have some regrets, but I have far more pleasant memories.
I’m happy with where I ended up, although I wish I could get around, but because of my disability wasn’t made by choice. Maybe was just life telling me to stop.
I’m stopping some things, but I’m not stopping travel. Heading out on a six week trip this fall and hope to get down to Merida and Cancun over the winter.
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Merida and Cancun. How exciting!
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