Making Your Dash Matter
- Feb 17
- 1 min read
I lost a friend last week. At age 100 he was a WWII veteran whose life and generosity touched many. I knew him through the organization he started that sent more than 20,000 care packages to soldiers serving in active duty in conflict zones. That’s the kind of guy he was in body and spirit—he was always looking out for others and making everyone feel genuinely appreciated. His dedication never faltered; he gave his all, right up until his final days.
Loss prompts me to consider the poem The Dash by Linda Ellis. It talks about how we use our time between birth and death (the dash on a tombstone). I reflect on my priorities and the enduring influence I want to have and the noise that distracts me from that focus.
In remembering my friend, I am reminded that genuine kindness and unwavering commitment can leave a quiet, yet powerful mark on the world. His legacy encourages me to focus on what truly matters and to make my own "dash" meaningful—one thoughtful action at a time.
