Reflecting Back with No Regrets

The holidays are a time for family, friends, food, gifts and joy.  It's also a time for reflection. 

I learned an important life lesson at an early age about reflection from my beloved grandfather. He was Irish with dancing eyes and a great storyteller. ... He unfortunately had a lot of health challenges, but for most of his life he put on a "happy face" for me.

It wasn't till I was 17 years old, and he was near the end of his life, that he said to me, "I wish I hadn't been afraid to do so many things in my life." The regret he felt, and the longing and poignancy in his voice broke my heart, and I vowed right then to live my life doing things that scared me...no regrets for me! 

As a result, I've lived a full life – as a matter of fact, I feel like I've lived several lifetimes wrapped up into this one wonderful life.

As you Patch readers know, my 2011 adventure was turning my passion for travel into a travel agency business...San Juan Capistrano Travel.  To me, travel is like food, a basic requirement for the fullness of life. 

Whatever it is that makes your heart sing, I encourage you to do more of it in 2012.  Seeing new places, meeting new people, learning new things, loving and laughing more...whatever is important to you, vow to do it in 2012. Live a life of no regrets.

Best to you and your loved ones during this wonderful season!

Warmly,

Ann