The Dash ---

I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on his tombstone
From the beginning to the end.
He noted that first came his date of birth
And spoke the following date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all
as the dash between the years.
For that dash represents all the time
That he spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved him
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 can 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
Withyour life's actions to rehash
Would you be proud of the things they say
About how you spent your dash?


I attended the memorial service and celebration of life for my friend Karie's husband Derek tonight.  A life taken all too soon!   It was great to hear a few stories from relatives and friends.  Then the video of so many wonderful pictures of Derek's life....so many great memories with family & friends. 


My friend Libby posted this poem just now on Facebook and it got me thinking...what would it look like at my celebration of life?  I can honestly say that I am proud of how I have and continue to spend my time/energy with friends and family and that I'm making a positive difference to all those I come in contact with....I'm not perfect, but I try and learn from my mistakes, move onward and be the best I can be...it's definitely a work in progress....but I'm getting there!   I will look back on my dash and SMILE!

Please keep Karie and her family in your prayers!