Tag Archives: regrets

Regrets? I Have A Few

19 Apr

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.

A graduate degree at 42.

When I was getting my Master’s degree at the University of Texas in 1994, 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.

Living in paradise.

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.

Portland 2025

So truthfully I have no regrets. At least that’s what I tell myself.

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