'You Only Have So Many Tomorrows'

'Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives, that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it! I say. Whatever you want to do, do it now! There are only so many tomorrows.'

- Pope Paul VI

The following excerpts are from a piece entitled, ‘You Only Have So Many Tomorrows’, meant for those who make it to their golden years. We’ve highlighted some regrets that may serve advantageous to those of you who have just begun to live …

I wish I had followed my passions ..

It's so easy to be seduced by a stable salary, a solid routine and a comfortable life, but at what expense?

Don't become a doctor/lawyer/nurse/therapist just because it's what your family or friends expect of you.

Doing something you love to do is deeply, emotionally satisfying. Remember, if you love your work, you'll never work a day in your life!

I wish I had lived more in the moment ..

We're always busy working, doing chores, talking on the phone, texting, surfing the internet or playing video games.

Put down all of the devices; leave work and chores to tomorrow; and enjoy this moment in time to its fullest.

I wish I had worked less ..

Wake up and realize that financial success or career accomplishment doesn't necessarily equal a happy, fulfilled life.

I wish I'd taken better care of myself ..

… research has shown that eating healthy, exercising more, and staying away from bad habits like smoking and drinking too much will keep you healthier.

I wish I'd appreciated (fill in the blank) more ..

The consequences of taking people for granted are always difficult to deal with.

The saying "You don't know what you have until it's gone" is one of the most truthful statements ever made.

Whether it's your spouse, friend, family member, child, your health or simply your youth, appreciate every single one no matter how trivial it may be.

When singer Warren Zevon, was asked after his diagnosis of terminal cancer at age 55 what advice he could give to people, his simple answer was, "Enjoy every sandwich."

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Mention and/or photos of Lauren, the love of Jay's life, are intentionally excluded from this site, when possible, at the request of and out of respect for the privacy of her family. To learn about Jay and Lauren's amazing journey together, visit Jay's blog, 'Simply Cycling, Traveling The World By Bicycle' @ simplycycling.org.

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