Should never have asked that child, “Why do you always do that?” But you can’t go back in time.

Should never have said, “You can leave if you want. Doesn’t matter to me.” But you can’t go back in time.

Should have gone to his game instead of working another hour, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have stood up and spoken when they asked for any closing comments, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have gotten a designated driver, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have pulled the trigger before I did, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have said, “I forgive you” but you can’t go back in time.

Should have kept my mouth shut, for I know how I am, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have paid off that credit card, but you can’t go back in time.

Should never have asked that woman out for a drink, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have written that letter before he passed away, but you can’t go back in time.

Should never have confronted her about her past, but you can’t go back in time.

Should never have stolen that blue shirt, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have stayed in school, but you can’t go back in time.

Should never have been texting while driving, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have kissed her. Right then and there I should have kissed her! But you can’t go back in time.

Wish we had talked more, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have put music on first, but you can’t go back in time.

Wish I hadn’t cried like a fool and stammered and stuttered and mumbled, but you can’t go back in time.

Should have mustered up the courage, gritted my teeth, looked them right square in the eyes and said with unabashed, unwavering confidence “I love you,” but you can’t go back in time.

But then again, there’s always tomorrow.

REX ALPHIN of Walters is a farmer, businessman, author, county supervisor and contributing columnist for The Tidewater News. His email address is rexalphin@aol.com.