I'd Pick More Daises

For about ten years I had a copy of the poem you will find below, pinned up on my office wall.
I found it following my breakdown and my difficult return to work.
There were days that I didn't know how I would get through.

There were days that were a minute by minute decision to carry on.

As I read this poem it really helped me put my life in perspective, it helped me see the bigger picture. It stops me taking myself too seriously

It was written by an anonymous 89 year old woman.

If I had my life to live over,
I would dare to make more mistakes next time.
I would relax, limber up.
I would be sillier than I have been this trip.
I would take fewer things seriously and take more chances.
I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers, and watch more sunsets.
I would, perhaps, have more actual troubles but I would have fewer imaginary ones.

You see, I am one of those people who live sanely, sensibly, prudently; hour after hour, day after day.
Oh, I have had my moments!
And if I had to do it over again, I would have more of them
Maybe I would have nothing else?
Just moments, one after another, instead of living so many years ahead of each day.
I have been one of those people who never goes anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a raincoat, and a parachute.

If I had it to do it over, I would travel lighter on the next trip.
I would start going barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall.
I wouldn't make such good grades, except by accident.
I would have more sweethearts.
I would go to more dances.
I would sing more songs and play more games.
I would ride more merry-go-rounds.
I'd pick more daisies.
If I had my life to live over.