Regrets Only

That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good. Romans 8:28 (The Message)

I got a party invitation recently that said, “Regrets Only.” It got me thinking of some of the things in my life that I regret. While Frank Sinatra might sing, “Regrets, I’ve had a few,” I have more than a few. So here’s a list of ten. At least of the ones I can print. There are more, but I’ll keep them to myself. In no particular order:

1. I regret buying burgundy imitation silk curtains for my living room that I cannot wash. They are dusty on the ends, but will have to stay that way until I can find the time to make some new ones that are washable.

2. I regret persuading a college boyfriend not to break up with me just so I could break up with him a few weeks later. I should have let him go with his dignity intact.

3. I regret neglecting to give one of our dogs his heartworm pills a few years ago. I got distracted with life and my neglect cost him his.

4. I regret putting on so much weight after I worked very hard to get rid of it after my youngest son was born. I spent tons of money on a nutritionist and looked really good, but I got lazy and it didn’t last.

5. I regret letting my husband talk me into plowing up my rose garden. I miss having so many fresh flowers that there were plenty for my house and to give away.

6. I regret not playing more with my kids. I was all about work and school. I don’t remember us having much fun.

7. I regret not putting in a bigger bathtub when we built this house twenty five years ago. But, then, money was pretty tight. I should have given up one of the fireplaces that we never use instead.

8. I regret the many times when I said something ugly to my husband or my kids. I manage to put on a front with my friends and co-workers, but my family knows the real me.

9. I regret letting my ability to play the flute go. When I went to college, I didn’t even take it with me. With no practice, I lost the skill.

10. I regret losing touch with some friends who were good to me over the years. With face book, I have found some and the reunions have been sweet.

But, there are some things I don’t regret. Marrying my husband. Having children. My career path. And most of all, choosing to follow God and to accept His free gift of salvation. Because of that gift, I can trust that the mistakes I made will be okay in the end. Understanding God’s sovereignty and His grace lets me sleep at night. I can live at peace with my past and look forward to my future. Still, I’ve been thinking. I found my flute when I cleaned my closet. I wonder how much lessons cost?