In her book, The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying, Australian nurse, Bonnie Ware lists the following as “feelings expressed commonly” among those nearing death:
- I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.
- I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.
- I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.
- I wish I’d stayed in touch with my friends.
- I wish that I had let myself be happier.
While the statements did not always include it, the word “courage” fits in each sentiment: the courage to live in integrity, the courage to take time off, the courage to express feelings, the courage to contact friends often, and the courage to allow my choice to be – happiness!
I came across a very old (1959) college philosophy paper the other day. After studying the great philosophers of the past, we were to write our personal philosophy. My summary at the end of my paper read: “As my life nears its end, I want to rest in the arms of its incredible experiences, look back over my life, and know that I wouldn’t change a thing!” That is the courage of a 17 year old. I must have learned a lot from her because I still feel that way! There is no room for regret when I stand in the knowing Peter has repeated over and over through the years: NO THING HAPPENS TO YOU, ALL THINGS HAPPEN THROUGH YOU!
May I enCOURAGE you to examine “courage” in your life. No task or experience need come with a dose of regret. We make the choice. My experience has shown me that the richness of the Universe is there to support me. Simply employ the courage to walk the path of your truth, rest confidently in your “knowing,” and the Amazing Grace and Unconditional Love will be your guiding flow.