She never gave herself permission to be happy

She was always preparing for the next thing: when the kids are in college, when her husband is promoted, when they buy the house. By the time the ifs were filled in she was sixty-seven. Her daughter asked, "Mom, are you happy now?" She started to prepare an answer and realized none was needed. Bronnie Ware's last regret was not letting oneself be happier. Many people never learn until the end that happiness is a choice. Happiness isn't granted. You grant it.