Over the years, I’ve met so many incredible people and heard heartfelt and amazing stories from folks all around the world about how one little poem touched them so deeply. The Dash poem has literally inspired millions. It has changed lives, but none more than my own. Please read my new version: "The Dash Between."
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 first came the date of the birth
and spoke the following date with tears.
But he said what mattered most of all
was the dash between the years.
For that dash represents all the time
that they spent life 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 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
about how you spent your dash?
This poem is now owned by
Southwestern Publishing.
The original "The Dash" poem is now owned and managed by Southwestern Publishing. Please contact them for permission to use. Please read the new version: "The Dash Between" which is available for purchase and licensing from the author. If you wish to reach out to author, please use contact form below. Thank you.