Someone once said, “You should never regret the things you do. Only regret the things you don’t do.” I don’t know who actually is quoted as saying that, but it’s one of those sayings that has stuck in my head. And it’s pure bullshit. I liken it to that other saying, “Live every day as if it’s your last.” Sure, the intention is there, but you can’t really apply it to every day life. For those people that do take these two quotes seriously, try this one on for size: “Everyone really should put their face into a blender at least once in their life.” Go ahead, I guarantee it’ll be a life changing experience.
But back to the topic at hand. One of the problems I have with the ‘regret’ quote is that it doesn’t really mean anything. It has good intentions, telling the reader/listener/stooge that you should basically try everything once, and even if it goes poorly you shouldn’t regret it. But what about Johnny the Murderer, does he regret killing his mum in the bath with a toaster? Maybe he doesn’t regret not killing her? Or what about Susie who was caught going 150kmph in a 40 school zone. I bet she regrets NOT going 40. So it kind of works if you twist the logic around and make it fit.
Now, about me. I can’t really say I have any huge regrets. Sure, there are times when I wished I had said something sooner, or done something, or NOT said anything at all. But very few of those moments weigh down on my conscience and stop me from living my mundane every day life. My biggest downfall as a human being (sounds serious!), is not being able to tell those closest to me how I feel. I guess it’s all very psychological and there’s some part of my brain that has a terrible fear of rejection, to the point that I’ll just ‘go along’ with everything without saying anything at all. Or I’m a big chicken. I like to think it’s a combination of both, and that my actions say more than words ever could (how poetic). But nice words are awesome.
So, next time you see me –in the flesh, NOT on Facebook- we can have a chat! Or not, if that kind of stuff scares you. We can be scared together.
If you’re wondering what kind of ‘motto’ I live by, well, I can’t really say. But one that has always stuck in my head was said by Hillel the Elder, a Jewish religious leader from 100BC. “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And when I am for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” That last bit is awesome. (I have included a rare photo of Hillel the Elder below).
Until next time, keep watching the ski(e)s.
Below: Hillel the Elder.
