For as we get older, it is not the things we did that we often regret, but things we didn't do.

Her eyes beginning to water, she went on, "So I would like you all to make
me a promise. From now on, on your way to school, or on your way home, find
something beautiful to notice. It doesn't have to be something you see, it could
be a scent - perhaps of freshly baked bread wafting out of someone's house, or
it could be the sound of the breeze slightly rustling the leaves in the trees,
or the way the morning light catches the autumn leaf as it falls gently to the
ground. Please look for these things, and cherish them. For, although it may
sound trite to some, these things are the "stuff" of life. The little things we
are put here on earth to enjoy. The things we often take for granted. We must
make it important to notice them, for at any time...it can all be taken away."
The class was completely quiet. We all picked up our books and filed out of the
room silently. That afternoon, I noticed more things on my way home from school
than I had that whole semester. Every once in a while, I think of that teacher
and remember what an impression she made on all of us, and I try to appreciate
all of those things that sometimes we all overlook. Take notice of something
special you see on your lunch hour today. Go barefoot. Or walk on the beach at
sunset. Stop off on the way home tonight to get a double-dip ice cream cone. For
as we get older, it is not the things we did that we often regret, but the
things we didn't do.