Instants

If I were able to live my life anew, 

In the next I would try to commit more errors.

I would not try to be so perfect, I would relax more.

I would be more foolish than I've been, 

In fact, I would take few things seriously.

I would be less hygienic.

I would run more risks, 

take more vacations, 

contemplate more sunsets, 

climb more mountains, swim more rivers.

I would go to more places where I've never been, 

I would eat more ice cream and fewer beans, 

I would have more real problems and less imaginary ones.

I was one of those people that lived sensibly

and prolifically each minute of his life; 

Of course I had moments of happiness.

If I could go back I would try

to have only good moments.

Because if you didn't know, of that is life made: 

only of moments; Don't lose the now.

I was one of those that never 

went anywhere without a thermometer, 

a hot-water bottle, 

an umbrella, and a parachute; 

If I could live again, I would travel lighter.

If I could live again, 

I would begin to walk barefoot from the beginning of spring

and I would continue barefoot until autumn ends.

I would take more cart rides, 

contemplate more dawns, 

and play with more children, 

If I had another life ahead of me.

But already you see, I am 85, 

and I know that I am dying.

(Jorge Luis Borges)