Daily writing prompt

Write about a time when you didn’t take action but wish you had. What would you do differently?

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Hello dear friends,

I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful mood and reflective spirit. Today’s writing prompt caught my attention like a sudden gust of wind on a quiet evening — “Write about a time when you didn’t take action but wish you had. What would you do differently?”

We all have chapters in our lives that begin with “What if…” or “I should have…” These aren’t just regrets — they are lessons wrapped in silence.

Let me take you on a little journey into my own life, to a moment that still gently knocks on the doors of my heart.

The Call I Never Made

It was over a decade ago. I had just entered the busy world of banking — a place of spreadsheets, schedules, and silent ambition. Life was a rush, and the clock was always the master.

Amidst the chaos, I learned that my childhood friend, Rajeev, had been diagnosed with a terminal illness.

We had been inseparable in school, sharing lunchboxes and laughter, secrets and silly fights.

But after college, our lives took different routes. I joined the banking sector; he pursued teaching in a remote village.

When I heard the news through a mutual friend, I hesitated. I thought of calling him. I even picked up the phone, but work was calling too. “Maybe tomorrow,” I whispered to myself.

Tomorrow never came. A week later, Rajeev was gone.

The Weight of Silence

That moment taught me more than any book ever could. I didn’t take action when it mattered most — a simple phone call that could have brought a smile to a fading face.

A few words of comfort, some shared memories, or just the sound of a familiar voice… it could have meant everything to him.

The silence I offered in those final days of his life is something I carry even now. It made me realize that not doing something can weigh heavier than doing the wrong thing.

What Would I Do Differently?

If I could go back, I wouldn’t wait. I would dial his number right away, no matter how busy I was. I would let him know how much our friendship meant to me, how often I thought of him.

I would listen to his voice, even if just for a few minutes, and share a laugh like we used to. That little action would have healed a part of both of us.

From that experience, I’ve changed. Now, I don’t delay things that matter. I write, I call, I express, I paint, and I live with intention.

A Gentle Reminder to You

Yes, dear friends, we all have our Rajeevs — people or moments that slipped through our fingers because we hesitated.

Sometimes, fear holds us back. Sometimes, it’s pride, or the illusion of time. But remember this: time waits for none, and the smallest action can have the deepest impact.

Is there someone you’ve been meaning to reach out to? A dream you’ve tucked away for “someday”?

A heartfelt apology or an overdue thank you? Do it today. Even a tiny step can save you from the burden of what might have been.

The Gift of Action

Inaction can leave a permanent mark, but it also offers a mirror — a chance to evolve. It teaches us what we truly value. That missed phone call taught me to treasure relationships, to pause for people, and to act when the heart whispers, “Now.”

So yes, I didn’t take action when it mattered. But I carry that lesson like a compass, guiding me toward a life with fewer regrets and more courage.

And if you’re reading this, maybe this blog is your sign. Make that call. Send that message. Chase that dream. Write that poem. Life is short, but your actions can make it beautiful.

With love,
Vijay Verma
Living, learning, and writing each day at retiredkalam.com

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