Say This Instead of That. Do This Instead of That.

Some common statements often made by those mourning the death of a loved one.
- "I regret that terrible thing I said to hurt him/her during our last conversation. I wish I had said this instead of that."
- I am so sorry tor that awful thing I did that embarrassed him/her so badly during that final time we spent together."
- I wish I had spent more time with him/her. There were so many opportunities to do things together that I now regret having squandered."

Here's an idea. There are loved ones among you who are still alive. The next time they say or do something that irritates you, stop, take a deep breath and say something comforting instead of hurtful. Before doing something stupid that may embarrass a loved one, think about the ramifications and just don't do it. Spend more time doing things with your loved ones even when you might rather be doing something else with someone else.

Follow the suggestions listed in the previous paragraph and you will never have to say " I wish I had said this instead of that". "I wish I had done this instead of that". "I wish we had spent more time together."