I would have invited friends over to dinner
even if the carpet was stained and the sofa
faded or the room was messy.
I would have eaten popcorn in the "GOOD" living
room and worried much less about the dirt when
someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to
my grandmother ramble about her youth.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled
up on a summer day because my hair had just been done.
I would have burned the good candle before it melted in storage.

I would have sat on the lawn with the kids
and not worried about grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while
watching television and more while watching life.
I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead
of pretending the earth would go into a holding
pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would never have bought anything just because
it was practical, wouldn't show soil or
was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
When the kids kissed me impetuously, I would never
have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner."
There would have been more saying "I love You"
There would have been more hugs and kisses.