What would I say to myself? I’d say, “Don’t waste a minute. You never know how many you have on this earth. And make sure you tell those you love that you love them.”

As the wife of a pastor and as a former military veteran, I’ve seen the regret people have when they feel they wasted time (and money) on frivolous things or things that might have had meaning at the moment, but which don’t in the long run and which pale in comparison to people around them. I’ve also witnessed people’s regret when they didn’t reconcile with family when they had the chance. Something happens and their family member is gone without them reconnecting. It’s always tragic and there are always regrets. I’ve also seen when family members who are ill trying to reconcile and the other party wasn’t willing.

I’d also say to myself, “Stop and think. Do you really need that [fill in the blank]? Is it going to make you happy in the long run?” How much stuff does one person need anyway? Life isn’t about stuff, it’s about experiences and memories. Stuff too often becomes an unnecessary burden.

What about you? What would you say to your younger self?