Friday, February 15, 2013

Spend time with friends

Fourth on the list of regrets of those who are dying, according to Australian nurse Bronnie Ware's book The Top Five Regrets of the Dying is: "I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends."

Ware spent years in palliative care and gathered last words from those for whom she cared. She says, "Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved."

Do you feel good about the time and effort you give to your friendships—and to all the important relationships in your life? If you don't, now is the time to make some changes. Now is the only moment we have for sure.

What would it take to give your relationships the time and effort you want to give them? Can you let go of something else on your to-do list? Perhaps combining the second regret of the book, "I wish I hadn't worked so hard," with this one might suggest some ways. Will your life really be better if you clean out the broom closet rather than have coffee with your friend? Take a good look at your choices and how you invest your time. Be sure your choices reflect your values—and leave you with fewer regrets on your deathbed!


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