If I had more time, I could chase dust bunnies under the bed and polish furniture until it shines. I would not have to hope no one comes by to visit because the floors are dirty, and I can’t remember the last time the windows were cleaned.

I could dump out dresser drawers and rearrange them.  I could clean the closet and find all the things I’ve not worn because I forgot I had them. Life must be too busy when you daydream of cleaning house.

I could study seed catalogs, plant bulbs in the fall and flowers in the spring. I would have time to grow roses, which need a lot of attention — attention I don’t have time for now.

I could prowl through sale racks to look for good clothes at low prices. I would have time to shop around. I could go to the thrift store for bargains on the first day of the month when everything is half price, if I had time.

I could paint that spot on the ceiling where water leaked in. I could hire a handyman to fix the closet doors that stick — if only I had time.

I could tackle the attic that is such a disaster now that I can’t even think about it. I could have a monstrous garage sale and get rid of all the things I don’t want that are too good to throw away but not good enough to keep.

I could get rid of all the junk in the garage and park the car without having to hold my breath hoping it will fit in one more time.

I could do crafts, paint pictures, make jewelry, do cross stitch, read that stack of books that I never have time to read. I could spend as much time as I want writing without having to hurry.

I could spend time on the computer. I could hang out on Facebook and Twitter, waste time online without feeling guilty. I could build websites, surf or blog all day long if I felt like it and if I had time.

I could stay up late and watch TV. If I am tired the next day, I could take a nap instead of drinking more coffee and pushing myself to go on because I have no time.

I could go to events, take short trips to nearby places, eat at interesting restaurants, plan and take vacations to exotic locations. There are so many places to see and I never see them because I don’t have any frequent flyer miles, and I don’t have time.

I could cook healthy meals instead of eating fast food. I could eat fewer hamburgers and hot dogs, and less hamburger helper. I could dine on roast beef, grilled steak, baked chicken and fresh vegetables. I could dust off my recipe books and try something new. I could make casseroles.

I could have quality time instead of being stressed and complaining because no one helps me with the chores. I could go out to the movies, go on vacations and enjoy good company, instead of fighting rush hour traffic on the Interstate every day.

I could spend time with my family, laugh, and watch TV. I could spend time with my grandchildren and give more hugs. I could have a home life instead of having constantly changing roles.

I could have time to do nothing, to ponder, to daydream, to enjoy memories, to watch the sunset, to relax and unwind.

I could live life instead of watching it rush by — if I had only had more time.

Copyright 2014 Sheila Moss