I Leave this Life with No Regrets

“I leave this life with no regrets. It was a wonderful life – full and complete with the great loves and great endeavors that make it worth living. I am sad to leave, but I leave with the knowledge that I lived the life that I intended.”

— Charles Krauthammer

I tell my wife that I love her more than life. It’s true. Having listened to and read Krauthammer, it’s sad to see another amazing mind leave us. It’s even more devastating to experience a loved one leaving us. Most of us have experienced that at least once in our lifetime.

We love our families, friends, and in many cases our co-workers. We give them dignity, respect and attention when needed and deserved. We listen to problems, heartaches and share tears and memories. We also share the laughter and joy that life brings each of us. 

When I think about my fondest moments in life, they go in reverse order of not only importance, but time — my daily interactions with my wife, grandkids, their parents, my parents and siblings, and friends. School is but a distant memory, but the lessons learned are to a great extent ingrained in my soul.

I’ve learned to appreciate life over the years, and see that the good things each of us does can have lasting impressions. My Father and Mother raised me to be a good person. I’ve tried to be. Although my Dad has been disappointed in me for my chosen career and (lack of) education path, his respect for me as a son, a husband and as a person still shows. 

My Mom—what can I say except that I’m the first born and only son in a Jewish family and she loves me like a mother. Yes, we’ve had our moments, and yes, our ups and downs, but in her over 80 years and about five-foot stature, she still calls her 6’2” son her “little boy”.

There are people that I miss, and in another world I hope to spend time with them. But until that happens, I’ll “keep punching” as my maternal Grandfather used to say.

To my wife, to my family and to friends, I love each of you in your own special way. I hope that life is gracious enough to give you the love and good things that you deserve.