The Dash

Sometimes we need to be reminded what's important. Here I present a copy of Linda Ellis' now famous poem...

The Dash

I read of a man who stood to speak, at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on this tombstone from beginning ….to the end.
He noted that first came his date of birth and spoke the following with tears.
But he said what mattered most of all, was the dash in between those years.

For the dash represents, all the time he spent alive on earth.
And how 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 most 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 is 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 is being read, with your life’s actions to rehash
would you be proud of the things they say and how your spent your dash?

Be True to Yourself

"Say what you mean and act how you feel,because those who matter don't mind,and those who mind don't matter." - Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel)

Sometimes you find yourself editing your words or thoughts in the company of others or most often in front of strangers. Surely this can be a helpful practice, if you tend to open your mouth wide to insert your foot, like we all do once in awhile...:-)

However, many times we edit ourselves because we are too worried about what someone else might think or say in response. If you find yourself doing this too often, perhaps it's time to understand why you do it. Is it fear? or an old habit?

The people who truly care about you will always listen without prejudice and offer advice should they hear something they think you need to re-consider. People who don't know you yet or who only offer negativity in response to your ideas are not people you should worry about.

Be true to yourself, learn to follow your instincts and don't worry about what 'they' will say. As a matter of fact, you might find others are interested in the heartfelt words that flow from you.

CJ