if i had my life to live over

If I had my life to live over by Paulo Coelho

If I had my life to live over, I would try to make more mistakes.

I would relax. I know of very few things that I would take seriously.

I would go more places. I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers.

I would eat more ice cream and less bran.

I would have more actual troubles and fewer imaginary troubles.

You see, I have been one of those fellows who live prudently and sanely, hour after hour, day after day.

Oh, I have had my moments. But if I had it to do over again, I would have more of them – a lot more.

I never go anywhere without a thermometer, a gargle, a raincoat and a parachute.

If I had it to do over, I would travel lighter.

If I had my life to live over,

I would pay less attention to people telling us we must learn Latin or History;

otherwise we will be disgraced and ruined and flunked and failed.

I would seek out more teachers who inspire relaxation and fun.

If I had my life to live over, I would start barefooted a little earlier in the spring and stay that way a little later in the fall.

I would shoot more paper wads at my teachers. I would keep later hours.

I’d have more sweethearts. I would go to more circuses.

I would be carefree as long as I could, or at least until I got some care- instead of having my cares in advance.

I doubt, however, that I’ll do much damage with my creed.

The opposition is too strong.

There are too many serious people trying to get everybody else to be too darned serious.

I would go to more amusement parks and less museums

I would not answer 90% of the invitations which has RSVP

I would go to stadiums instead of watching football on TV

I would learn how to play guitar

I would work for one week in a Post Office (I adore Post Offices)

I would keep updated my stamps collection

but in general, I am living my life the way I choose to live