How are you living your dash?
While at a memorial service this week I was one of thousands fortunate to learn about "The Dash" of fallen law enforcement officer, Deputy U.S. Marshal Tommy Weeks. His widow passionately used the verses of the poem by Linda Ellis to shift the focus from her husband's final day, to his beautiful dash. To the incredible life he lived, the way he made his loved ones feel, and the passion that poured from his spirit daily.
THE DASH
I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend
He referred to the dates on the tombstone
From the beginning…to the end
He noted that first came the date of birth
And spoke 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 they spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved them
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 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
About how you spent YOUR dash?
Dash by Linda Ellis, Copyright@2020 Inspire Kindness, thedashpoem.com
Deputy Marshal Weeks' dash was filled with love for life, family, friends, and service. His life is a reminder to us all of the importance of living our dash with purpose and intention. This can be done in large and small ways. Many will remember him for his bravery and heroism as a U.S. Marshal. His wife will remember his good morning, "I love you" and all the little ways he helped her feel beautiful and strong.
Each of us has our own unique dash. This week, take a moment to slow down and consider: How are you living yours? What do you want to amplify for the rest of it? What do you want to eliminate? How do you hope to make people feel?
There is no right way to live your dash. Only the way that feels right to you.
Mother's Day Moods
Happy early Mother's Day to those who are celebrating this year!
As the day approaches, let's take a moment to think about the women in our lives who may be facing this day with mixed emotions. This day can be challenging for many. Last year I wrote this personal post about controlling the controllables and allowing all the feels on Mother's Day.
Please consider sharing it with anyone who could use a little extra support this week. Together, let's make this day a little brighter for those who may need it most!
With love,
Missy
