A Subtle Reminder – Poem

Time is short. Life is short too. I came across this poem written by Jorge Luis Borges. He was in his 80’s when he wrote this.

When I was younger, I heard a quote. I’ve always held onto this quote and was reminded of it after I read Jorge’s poem. May we all take heed to this poem. Learn from it and live our days out to the fullest.

The Poem

If I could live again my life,

In the next – I’ll try,

– to make more mistakes,

I won’t try to be so perfect,

I’ll be more relaxed,

I’ll be more full – than I am now,

In fact, I’ll take fewer things seriously,

I’ll be less hygienic,

I’ll take more risks,

I’ll take more trips,

I’ll watch more sunsets,

I’ll climb more mountains,

I’ll swim more rivers,

I’ll go to more places – I’ve never been,

I’ll eat more ice creams and less lima beans,

I’ll have more real problems – and less imaginary ones,

I was one of those people who live prudent and prolific lives – each minute of his life,

Of course that I had moments of joy – but, if I could go back I’ll try to have only good moments,

If you don’t know – that’s what life is made of,

Don’t lose the now!

I was one of those who never goes anywhere without a thermometer,

without a hot-water bottle, and without an umbrella and without a parachute,

If I could live again – I will travel light,

If I could live again – I’ll try to work bare feet at the beginning of spring till the end of autumn,

I’ll ride more carts, I’ll watch more sunrises and play with more children,

If I have the life to live – but now I am 85, – and I know that I am dying …”

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