I’m 92… I Need to Tell You Something Before I Go
At 92 years old, Margaret Thompson knows that time is something she no longer has an abundance of. In a quiet, reflective moment, she decided to share something that has been weighing on her heart for decades — something she believes everyone should know, especially younger generations. Sitting by her window on a chilly autumn afternoon, she put down her knitting, looked out at the world she’s watched change, and decided it was time to speak her truth.
This is her story — a personal reflection on life, loss, lessons learned, and what she hopes will continue after she’s gone.
A Lifetime of Observations
Margaret’s life has spanned some of the most significant periods in history — from World War II to civil rights movements, to the digital revolution and beyond. Over the years, she has seen both extraordinary change and tragic regression. From her upbringing in a modest town to her role as a mother, teacher, and community member, she’s witnessed how society and individuals have evolved — sometimes for the better, but at other times, with much loss.
Yet, after 92 years of experience, Margaret has come to a realization that she feels compelled to share. The lessons she’s learned, the regrets she has, and the wisdom she’s acquired are invaluable. And before it’s too late, she wants to make sure her reflections leave a mark — not just on her family, but on the world around her.
Life Is Short: Learn to Cherish Time
“The one thing I’ve learned in my long life,” Margaret says, her voice soft but resolute, “is that time is the most precious thing we have. We all think we have forever, but we don’t. Time slips through our fingers like sand. I’ve wasted too many years focusing on things that didn’t matter — worrying about what people thought, chasing achievements that brought me no true happiness. And now, I look back and realize that all I ever needed was to cherish the small moments, the simple things.”
Her eyes fill with emotion as she continues: “I wish I had spent more time with the people I loved. I wish I’d been more present. Time can never be reclaimed, and that’s something I hope younger people learn before it’s too late for them. Don’t waste time, don’t let it slip by.”
The Importance of Compassion and Kindness
Throughout her life, Margaret has placed a high value on kindness and compassion. Reflecting on her childhood, she recalls the lessons her parents taught her about respecting others and always lending a hand to those in need. She emphasizes that her moral compass was shaped by the love and empathy of those around her.
“Kindness is something we often overlook, especially in today’s fast-paced world,” Margaret reflects. “But I’ve come to realize that kindness is the glue that holds the world together. Whether it’s listening to someone, offering a meal, or simply offering a smile — these small gestures change lives.”
As someone who spent decades working with children and teaching at local schools, Margaret saw firsthand how acts of kindness could transform not just the individual receiving it, but entire communities. “Some of the greatest lessons I’ve ever learned weren’t taught in the classroom,” she says. “They were taught by seeing kindness in action — seeing it spread.”
The Importance of Family and Relationships
Looking back on her life, Margaret recognizes the importance of family and deep relationships. She has experienced the pain of loss — losing her husband, friends, and, sadly, several of her children. The grief of those losses still lingers, but it’s made her understand that people matter most.
“Family is the foundation,” Margaret states, pausing for a moment, her face softening. “We are not meant to go through this life alone. I’ve learned that it’s love and relationships that give life meaning. Money, fame, all of that fades. But what you leave behind in the hearts of others is what endures.”
Her advice to the younger generation? Value your loved ones, don’t take them for granted, and never let a day go by without telling them how much they mean to you.
Regrets: Lessons Learned the Hard Way
Though Margaret’s life has been rich with moments of joy, love, and success, she admits that regret has been an ever-present companion. “I regret not being braver,” she says. “I spent too much time living in fear, afraid of failure, afraid of disappointing people. And in doing so, I missed out on some wonderful opportunities.”
She continues: “I’ve also learned that perfection is a lie. I spent too many years trying to be perfect, trying to meet expectations, only to find that imperfection is what makes us truly human. Embrace who you are, flaws and all.”
A Call for Reflection and Faith
Margaret’s reflections on faith are also profound. She was raised in a Christian household, and while her faith has evolved over time, it remains a guiding force. “Faith isn’t about being perfect,” she says. “It’s about knowing that you’re never alone, even in the toughest moments. I’ve found peace in my relationship with God, and I want to encourage everyone to find their faith, whatever it may be.”
She notes that the world today feels more divided than ever before, and she urges people to turn to their spiritual beliefs to heal the fractures in society. “If more people could turn inward and focus on what really matters — love, forgiveness, and peace — the world would be a much better place.”
A Final Message for the World
Margaret’s final words before concluding her reflections are simple but profound. “Take care of your time. Take care of each other. And never forget to love. Life is short, and it’s so easy to get caught up in distractions that don’t matter.”
Her eyes glisten as she finishes. “I hope my children and my grandchildren know that I love them. I hope they’ll cherish the moments we’ve shared and always remember that, in the end, it’s love and kindness that will carry us through. And I hope they’ll teach that to their children.”
Conclusion: A Legacy of Wisdom and Love
At 92 years old, Margaret Thompson’s life is a testament to the enduring power of love, compassion, and faith. As she reflects on the lessons she’s learned and the mistakes she’s made, it’s clear that her message is not just for her family — but for the world. In a time of great uncertainty, her words ring true: time is precious, and relationships matter more than anything else.
Her testimony serves as a poignant reminder for all of us to live with purpose, love deeply, and never forget the small moments that give life its greatest meaning.
