How Do You Live Your Dash?

I came across this poem a number of years ago and thought it made an excellent point. I think we lean toward those things that speak to us in a special way even if we will not admit what they are saying to us.

I used this poem with students at one point hoping they would give some thought to how they were living their lives before there was too much room for regret. I doubt though that they gave too much thought to it at the time, but perhaps they will remember it at some point through the years.

The poem is written here for your enjoyment and whatever you chose to take from it.

How Do You Live Your Dash?

I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend.
Her referred to the dates on her tombstone
From the beginning...to the end.
He noted that first came her date of birth
And spoke the following date with tears.
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the dash between those years. (1930-1999)

For that dash represents all the time
That she spent alive on earth.
And now only those who love her
Know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not how much we own;
The cars...the houses...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 awhile.

So, when your eulogy's being read
Your life's actions to rehash...
Would you be proud of the things they say
About how you spent your dash?

Author Unknown

I still enjoy reading this poem; I hope you enjoyed it too.

Blessings to all!