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warm and friendly to our neighbors and helping others whenever she could. She showed the same kindness to strangers, always putting others’ needs before her own. When I was 17 and David showed up at my house to pick me up, the first thing she did was sit him down at the kitchen table and feed him. After a couple of months, David suggested that if we ever stopped dating, maybe we could just not tell my mom. He wanted to keep coming over for her homemade tortillas. My mom taught us what it meant to walk in faith, to give without expecting, and to serve others with dignity and a heart full of love. Day after day, I saw her do the very best she could with what she had. Her drive, determination, strength, and endurance inspired me. She encouraged me to study and learn, to pursue my interests, and to work hard and save. One of her lessons that I’ll never forget was if I want something, don’t ask for it — I had to earn it.
I mourn her passing, but more than that, I celebrate her impact, virtue, and legacy. I promise myself to live in a way that honors the woman she was as I do my best to become the woman she wanted me to be. My mom was love in action and faith in motion. Though she is no longer here physically, her presence lives in every act of kindness we do, every prayer we say, and every lesson she taught us. One of her sweetest habits was how she sent us on our way. Whenever anyone left her house, she would smile and say, “Hey, take care of yourself.” We always felt the love in those simple words.
We will miss her dearly, but we will never forget her.
–Irma Bennett
LESSONS FROM LIFE’S COMMON REGRETS MAKE TIME FOR WHAT MATTERS
Every now and then, it’s natural to pause and wonder how life will feel when we look back. What will we be glad we chose to do? What might we wish we had done differently? People working with those nearing the end of life hear these reflections all the time. Over the years, certain regrets show up again and again. They remind us to think about how we want to spend the time we have. Relationships come up often. Many wish they had stayed in touch with family and friends. They regret not saying what they truly felt. A simple phone call or visit can mean more than we think. If someone has been on your mind, this may be a good time to reach out. Many people also mention missed opportunities. They wish they had taken more chances or explored a dream. It is not too late to take the first step. Even a small action can open new possibilities.
regret working so much and say that what really matters is the time they spent with loved ones. If you are now retired, enjoy that freedom. If you are still working, look for small ways to give your time and attention to the people and activities you care about. Joy is another thing frequently reflected on. People regret letting worry or routine take over their lives. We can all choose to bring more happiness into each day. Sometimes that means sitting with a friend, taking a walk somewhere beautiful, or trying something that makes us laugh. There are many things in life that we can’t control, but we can take charge of our outlook. Choose to be happy and do those things that support your well-being. These reflections are a gift. They remind us to focus on what matters. A few small choices today can help us look back with fewer regrets tomorrow. And as you plan for the future, remember to enjoy life right now.
Work is another common theme. Toward the end of life, few people talk about promotions or paychecks. Many
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