Waits for No Man

We neatly categorize our lives and the lives of others into segments: milliseconds, seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, years, decades, centuries, etc. Altogether, everything is measured, the worth of every action is validated by this system known as 'time'. It can be counted down, added up, and kept close track of, but it can only ever go in one direction: forward. It is because of this that we must, at all times, have the good sense to make the 'right' choice in every situation. Even if we do nothing, time will pass us by in enough quantity so that we end up regretting having squandered it. Is this fair? Why must we never experience the mercy of a second chance? If we are not beings capable of foresight, why establish such an unforgiving system? What is the purpose of living with regret or being left to wonder about the path not taken? Are there places out there where time does not flow in only one direction?