The DASH

I read of a man who stood to speakAt the funeral of a friendHe referred to the dates on her tombstoneFrom the beginning...to the end.He noted that first came her date of birthAnd spoke the following date with tears,But he said what mattered most of allWas the dash between those years (1981 - 2005)For that dash represents all the timeThat she spent alive on earth...And now only those who loved herKnow 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 enoughTo 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 moreAnd love the people in our livesLike 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 readWith your life's actions to rehash...Would you be proud of the things they say About how you spent your dash? If you have received this, it means that you aretruly special to the one that sent this to you. With no strings attached, is it possible for you to send it also to a buddy?I am glad that you're in my life and part of my dash.