The Dash


I came across this beautiful poem by Linda Ellis. She refers to the "dash" as the years we spend on earth and how important those years are. Please read on and be inspired.


I read of a man who stood to speak
at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
from the beginning...to the end.

He noted that first came the date of her birth
and spoke of the following date with tears,
but he said what mattered most of all
was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time
that she spent alive on earth...
and now only those who loved her
know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much we own;
the cars....the house...the cash.
What matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard...
are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left.
That could still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough
to consider what's true and real,
and always try to understand
the way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,
and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives
like we've never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,
and more often wear a smile...
remembering that this special dash
might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy's being read
with your life's actions to rehash...
would you be proud of the things they say
about how you spend your dash?

Watch the movie here:
The Dash Movie


We only have one chance to life, let's spend our "dash" wisely.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Certainly makes you think Lisa. The dash = life lived. So it's not just about how we live our life, but what we can also contribute to the lives of others, whether it be family, friends or complete strangers. We all have the ability to help those less fortunate than ourselves and give them a life that has meaning and purpose.
So when my eulogy is being read, hopefully it will be with a smile :o)
Wish you and your family a great weekend.
cotojo
Sophiagurl said…
@@@Cotojo - you are right Colin, the dash = life lived. i liked the way you put all these into words. =) Wishing you a great weekend as well!
Anonymous said…
errrr...dash= life lived or life missing??
Sophiagurl said…
@@@dream catcher - depends on which side you are looking from little brother.

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