Backstory
I longed for a do-over. If only I could be given one more chance to make it right, I would do things so differently. But that privilege was denied. I was stuck with the action I had taken. No do-over. Never. It made me think of the times when you just don’t get a second chance. This week’s story is about those times.
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You Can’t Recover- #454
There are five things that you cannot recover in life:
1. The Stone…after it’s thrown,
2. The Word…after it’s said,
3. The Occasion…after it’s missed,
4. Time…after it’s gone,
5. Loved ones …after they die
Yet we are so quick and willing to waste each of these precious commodities. It’s like we think they’ll always be there. And they won’t.
When something goes wrong, the stone of blame is thrown so quickly, often before the facts are known.
And the word – oh, the angry word that can’t come back after it’s said. Pray for the wisdom to take a breath when you are angry. Measure your words before they are said. The wrong words can live a lifetime with the one who hears them.
Then there are the occasions. If the occasion is special to someone you love, it should be special to you. Be there. It matters.
And when you decide how to spend your time, remember that no graveyard headstone ever said, “I wish I spent more time in the office.”
Spend it with those you love – particularly the young, and the old. Share stories. Create memories. Give generously of your time to those you love. They are not here forever – and neither are you.
P.S.
Second best is making up for one of the items you cannot recover. Sometimes you get the chance to admit your error, apologize and try to move on. Such a very poor alternative. Spend your time making sure you don’t commit these sins, rather than making up for them.
[Show #454]