This story was a powerful reminder to me of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones as they can quickly disappear. It caused me to take a step back and think about how a seemingly small argument can have a huge impact on our lives. It was a reminder to cherish the relationships we have with our friends and family to be grateful for the time we spend with them and to be mindful of our words and actions.
Live Each Day As If It Were Your Last: Reflecting on One Woman
Frequently we receive the same advice: “live each day as if it were your last.” While this adage sounds poignant, it often seems to go in one ear and out the other, doesn’t it?
Some time ago I met with a woman who could not speak to share her personal experience.
A tragic traffic accident scene unfolded before the eyes of a woman, who rushed to the scene to find the devastating news that her husband had lost his life in the mishap. The woman was full of tears and desperately clung to every detail, asking questions and expressing her pain out loud until finally, it was possible to decipher what she was screaming in anguish:
Why did I have to argue with him before he left this morning?
With an exhausted countenance, the woman finally dropped to the floor. Moved by her grief, I approached her to express my condolences and try to bring her some comfort. Still, in shock from the tragic news, she shared with me how she had argued earlier that morning with the love of her life over a minor incident: he had left the toilet seat open the night before.
Just like that, an insignificant quarrel escalated into a heated argument with her screaming and him storming out of the house, slamming the door without even exchanging a kiss, a hug or a loving word.
Appreciate Each Moment: Learning to Value Every Relationship and Opportunity Before It’s Too Late
As the woman continued to speak, I couldn’t help but reflect on how often we all act the same way. As human beings, we often seem to feel immortal and never consider the fact that:
“Maybe this is the last time I will have the opportunity to see this person”
If we could adopt this mindset, we might begin to appreciate more each situation that comes our way. We would ask ourselves if it is really worth arguing and separating in anger, or if it is preferable to make peace, express our feelings and enjoy the time we have left together.
What would happen if we never see each other again? It’s a question that would make us think twice before letting negative emotions control us.
Remember to Express Love Before Saying Goodbye: Message from a Widow
Those of us who were able to support the woman assured her that she was not to blame and recommended that she try to put aside feelings of guilt. Before leaving, the woman looked deeply into our eyes and spoke these wise words:
“Never say an angry goodbye to the person you love”
The message of strength and wisdom conveyed to us by this widow, who could not even approach the inert body of her husband, is impressive.
Sometimes we refuse to accept it, but the reality is that life is ephemeral and unpredictable. Before making hasty decisions or saying hurtful words that may affect those we love, it is important to reflect and consider whether it is worth arguing or not. We must appreciate and value our loved ones, and show them love and affection whenever we have the opportunity because we never know which will be the last.
The power of appreciating the people you love: A story that will change your life forever
Undoubtedly there is nothing more worthwhile than living without the weight of guilt and desolation that accompanies us when we think of lost opportunities to express our love and affection to those we care about.
It is essential to remember that it is never too late to give a hug, say “I love you” or simply show a gesture of affection to those we love. I hope this touching story has the same impact on your lives as it did on mine. May it help us to value and appreciate every moment, every person and every opportunity that comes our way in life.
