I'd Pick More Daisies

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 been this trip. I know of very few things that I would take seriously. I would be crazier. I would be less hygienic. I would take more chances. I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers, and watch more sunsets. I would burn more gasoline. I would eat more ice cream and fewer 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 and 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 of each day. I have been one of those people who never go anywhere without a thermometer, hot water bottle, a gargle, a raincoat and a parachute.

If I had it to do 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 get such good grades except by accident. I would ride on more merry-go-rounds. I would pick more daisies.

Nadine Stair, age 85, Louisville,Kentucky