Educational Journeys

Last week I was left shaken by the unexpected death of my step-father.  As members of the family gathered in support, we hugged, cried, laughed and talked of new perspectives.  Although I have not previously experienced the death of anyone close to me, I certainly expected most of those reactions.  What really struck me, however, was how often I heard "I wish I had.........."  The regret for actions not taken, for time not spent, is hard to get past.

Certainly we have come away from this initial grieving process with a new perspective on the things in life that matter, and a resolve to spend time really investing in the people we love.  It has reinforced the concept that we all know deep down---time marches on quickly, and if we keep putting off 'til tomorrow what could be done today, there is a danger the "right" time may not be available.  

It would be ridiculous to equate anything on a "to do" list to the importance of personal relationships, but this focus on regret did get me thinking about regrets in my own life.  Although I have had my share of heartache and have made plenty of mistakes, I have said for years that my only true regret (probably because I really could find no good reason for this particular mistake) was in not finishing my University of New Hampshire System degree.  I am so glad to be participating now in an Adult College Program through Granite State College that will allow me to finish, to complete my degree--and yes, to alleviate that regret.   It feels good to be working toward that goal, so I won't have to "wish I had........"

So, this week I will be looking at all of the people in my life a bit differently, spending time really engaging with them, and with a new found sense of purpose.  Let me encourage you to look at what you'd like to accomplish--whether it's with a career, a relationship, or any other life event, and ask yourself "What's really holding me back?"  As for me, "hats off!" to Granite State College for making it possible for me to take action, and toward my resolve to look forward with no regret.