The Folly of Time Travel and Regret

Time travel has been a popular topic of discussion for centuries. Movies, books, and even some scientific and philosophical theories have been built around going back in time and seeing how that might alter the course of history. Ask yourself, if given the chance, would you choose to travel back in time with the knowledge you have now or would you stay the course such that you remained at this present state of being?  This question is frequently asked on social media platforms and other forums to generate discussion.  But this question, and its sentiment, is merely a cruel diversion from what it means to live your life. At its heart, the idea disregards the value of our experiences, our learning from mistakes, and the importance of accepting one's past. 

My goodness, I have made many mistakes, both big and small! However, with every misstep, there has been some invaluable lesson;  I'd like to believe that I have gained some wisdom from each error. Whether I'm content with my current station in life (which I am) or even if I am not, the undeniable truth remains: the accumulation of mistakes, trials, tribulations, and the associated pain surrounding each of these has shaped me into the individual I am today. Like every other animal on this planet, I have endured suffering, but it is this very suffering and my learning from it that has been the most important part of my personal growth, as well as the collective growth of humanity throughout history.

It seems part of human nature to look back and think about the 'what ifs': “If I had only not left her.” “If I had only gone back to school.” “If only I hadn’t freaked out at that great job I had.” “If I had only saved more money.” “If only I had studied harder.”  “If I only had left him earlier.”  These thoughts are the haunting stings of regret, which lure so many people into a melancholic dance with the past. 

This siren song of remorse has a potent pull, luring individuals into a vortex of rethinking past decisions, fantasizing about imagined futures, and clouding their vision with the deceptive notion that avoiding prior mistakes would have led to a more prosperous and satisfying life. However, this fixation with the past only ensures one outcome: a heightened sense of suffering today and a life mired in stagnation.

Let's entertain the following thought for a moment: what would happen if I were to journey back in time and rectify any or all of the "mistakes" I perceive I made?  Well, I would inevitably be charting a new trajectory for my life. That is for sure. However, while possibly devoid of past known errors, this altered path would certainly be riddled with new challenges and pitfalls. How could you even think it would not be the case?

There is absolutely no reason to even suspect that making different choices in the past would render one's present more fulfilling. While the tapestry of life would certainly be different, the fundamental nature of existence, characterized by mistakes and suffering, triumphs and joys, would remain unchanged. One would simply encounter different challenges and endure different forms of suffering.  

You have no reason to expect that this alternate reality you have conjured in your head would be any better than the now you are living in today.  The universe simply unfolds as it does. Its infinitely intricate nature ensures that every individual will face their own unique set of trials regardless of their choices. Of trials, you can be certain!  

So, the crux of the matter isn't about fantasizing about past mistakes to avert pain but rather embracing the present, expressing gratitude for the gift of life, and choosing today to make conscious decisions that prioritize one's well-being and the well-being of others.

There is no control over what life hands you, so don't think that, by going back in time, you would be any happier or more satisfied than you are today.  Realize that living in the past is possibly the biggest barrier to your progress going forward. Instead, the focus should be on the here and now. The past, with its myriad of experiences, should only serve as a foundation to build a meaningful future. Embrace the present, cherish the lessons learned, and fully embrace this journey of life that you are experiencing now.