The course of our life is governed by factors over which we have no control and by choices that we make. As we grow older, and especially near the end of life, we are inclined to examine that history, wondering what we might (or should) have done differently.
Of course, choice does not arise until we reach the age of independence but childhood experiences certainly influence future decisions. Our primary choices have to do with our education, our career, our relationships, our beliefs and our lifestyle. Course corrections in any or all of these areas are common.
Looking back, we may identify "mistakes" that spawn regret but our review must respect the context in which those choices were made, details that often fade with time. Judging ourself without placing choices in their proper context may lead to dubious conclusions. Indeed, one might argue that time invalidates a truthful re-examination of our life but we tend to do so anyway.
