I bet you didn't know I had a favourite poem, right? The Dash Poem is a popular poem written by Linda Ellis. Full credit. I love it. Always have! It's a thought-provoking piece that encourages reflection on the significance of the "dash" between the birth and death dates on a tombstone. Having just turned 50 with a goal of becoming a Centenarian (living past 100 years old), I'm even more conscious of my "dash". Plus, my family gave me a tattoo voucher for my 50th birthday. So what do you think? Shall I get it as my next tattoo? Here's the text of the poem:

The Dash Poem

I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.

He referred to the dates on her tombstone from the beginning to the end.

He noted that first came the date of her birth and spoke of 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 she spent alive on earth.

And now only those who loved her 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?

The Dash Poem has resonated with me for many years, not to mention many others around the world. It's a reminder to live each day to the fullest and make a positive impact on the world while we can. Every time I read it, it inspired me to do just that. I'd love to know your thoughts now that you've read it.

How does this resonate with you?

What's your favourite poem?

What's your next tattoo? 😜

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