At one time or another, we are all guilty of putting our lives on hold, sometimes because we have to, and sometimes because we want to do so. I say to myself, I’d like to start swimming again and in the next breath, I figure that I should buy a new bathing suit. How many of us have said that we will do such and such “after we retire?” My father wanted to travel to Ireland. He didn’t. He died before he could retire.
For the last six months, I’ve put my life on hold, pretty much, saying that when I finish a certain manuscript, things will get back to normal. I’m still awaiting that completion and that thought.
My point is this: Sometimes it is important to wait until another time, and sometimes, we should enjoy life while it is here. I’m sure that both of my brothers thought they had more time, yet both died of a heart condition at 50 and 53. I’ve already outlived them, and I have the same medical condition.
For that reason, I value my time, and I dislike other people wasting it. As the TV commercial says, “I have just this one life to live.” I second the motion. In fact, I’d add that I am glad that I only have to go through this life once. I hope that I’ve absorbed some good lessons along the way. Somehow, I don’t stop making mistakes. Call it being human. You are allowed the privilege, too.
I came across a quote that I like a lot, especially in regard to history. “You are entitled to your own opinions, but you are not entitled to your own facts.” = Daniel Patrick Moynihan
We’d best keep that in mind. A fact is what actually happened and a story is your opinion of what might have happened, or could have happened, but did not necessarily happen.
I am a workaholic and it is no secret that I could make a whole career out of correcting the stupid misrepresentations of the facts, as presented by other so-called historians and quilt historians. Yes, they mean well. So did Hitler, or so he thought.
My message is two-fold. Build some enjoyment into your life or you will soon become bitter and resentful. Find fun things you used to do, and reinvent the process. Part of fun is getting the facts straight. There is accountability in this life … and the next. Enjoy every moment. We never know how many are left. As we take our last breath, I can guarantee you that we will not be saying that we wished we’d cleaned the oven more often. Personally, I am looking for a quality life, as I know I may not have as much time as others. There is no expectation to live to 101 for me. In the meantime, I’ll contribute what I can, and try less and less to put the things that make life worthwhile … on hold. I hope you do the same.
Patricia Cummings
