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Life is short. The older I get, the more I realize just how short.

In my devotional reading one morning, these words jumped off the page: Create memories—not regrets. That statement made me do some serious soul-searching. What had I been creating with my words and actions?

I have a few friends who have recently lost a spouse. One talks about all the wonderful memories she has, while another is full of regrets, wishing she could have a do-over.

I’ve experienced both the good and the bad. When I think back over the years, especially in regard to friends and loved ones who are no longer with me, there are a few things I wish I could go back and change. Words of love and affirmation I wish I could say to them. That’s not possible, but going forward, I can choose what I create for the remainder of my days.

Time is a precious commodity, yet we waste it bickering over petty issues that mean nothing. We criticize and complain. We react in anger rather than love. We wound others with our words and fail to show them how much we care. We hold back our compliments and encouragement when others need it most. We spin our wheels in trivial pursuits instead of attending to important matters. Then we look back with remorse, wishing we had done things differently—but it’s too late.

The Bible tells us to be wise. To walk in love. To prefer and consider others above ourselves. To be peacemakers. To edify and build up those around us. To live our lives in a way that pleases and honors God. When we do, we are filled with joy and peace—and others are blessed. That’s the way to create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Make sure you are creating memories, not regrets.