How many times have we told someone we love them and how much they mean to us before it’s too late? People have gone through this, and the regret is bigger than any other emotion.

The following story serves as a reminder that we do not need to wait for particular occasions to express our love to those who are important to us.

My wife wanted me to take my mother out to dinner and a movie after 21 years of marriage. “I love you,” she added, “but I know this other woman loves you and would like to spend some time with you.” My wife also wanted me to pay a visit to my mother, who had been a widow for 19 years, but the responsibilities of my job and my three children had limited my ability to do so. I contacted her that night to invite her to dinner and a movie. “What’s wrong, are you okay?” she asked. “I thought it would be nice to spend some time with you,” I said. “Just the two of us.” “I would like that very much,” she answered.

I was worried as I drove over to pick her up after work on Friday. She had curled her hair and was dressed in the gown she had worn to her previous wedding anniversary. She smiled, her face as bright as an Angel’s. “I told my friends that I was going out with my son, and they were impressed,” she explained as she climbed into the car. “They can’t wait to hear all about our meeting.”

We proceeded to a restaurant that, while not particularly elegant, was extremely comfortable and cozy. My mother grabbed my arm like she was the First Lady. I had to read the menu once we sat down. Her eyes were only capable of reading huge print. I lifted my eyes halfway through the entries and noticed Mom staring at me. Her lips were set in a wistful smile. “It was I who had to read the menu when you were small,” she explained. “Then it’s time for you to unwind and let me repay the favor,” I said.

We had a pleasant talk over dinner, nothing special, just catching up on each other’s lives. We spent so much time talking that we missed the movie. When we got to her house, she said, “I’ll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you.” I accepted.

“How was your dinner date?” When I arrived home, my wife asked. “It really beautiful. “Much more than I could have anticipated,” I replied. My mother died of a major heart attack a few days later. It happened so quickly that I didn’t have a chance to help her. I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same restaurant where my mother and I had eaten. “I paid this bill in advance,” a message attached stated. I wasn’t sure if I could make it, but I bought two plates – one for you and one for your wife. You’ll never understand what that night meant to me.”

“I love you, son.” At that moment, I realized how important it is to say, “I love you,” and to give our loved ones the time they need. Nothing is more important in life than your family.

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