Living Between the Lines: Understanding the Profound Meaning of Your Dash
Life is short, make it count. Those five simple words capture the essence of a powerful metaphor that transforms how we view our existence. The “dash” – that seemingly insignificant line between our birth and death dates – represents the entire tapestry of our earthly journey. It’s not about the dates that bookend our lives, but the rich, meaningful experiences we create between them.
Linda Ellis’s poignant poem, The Dash, beautifully illustrates this concept. Here’s an excerpt:
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.
In her work, she describes a funeral eulogy where the speaker focuses not on the dates, but on the dash that represents a person’s entire life story. This tiny line encapsulates every moment of joy, challenge, love, and purpose that we experience during our limited time on Earth.
The Biblical Perspective: Numbering Our Days Wisely
Scripture offers profound wisdom about life’s brevity. Psalms 90:10 reminds us that we are typically granted seventy to eighty years – a relatively short span in the grand scheme of eternity. This realization should motivate us to live intentionally and meaningfully.
Each year is a precious gift, not to be squandered on trivial pursuits, but invested in relationships, personal growth, and making a positive impact on the world around us. Our dash is not about accumulating wealth or personal achievements, but about the lives we touch and the difference we make.
Purposeful Living: Making Your Dash Count
C.T. Studd’s powerful poem captures the ultimate truth:
“Only one life, ’twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.”
While this speaks directly to those with Christian faith, the broader message resonates with anyone seeking a life of significance.
Living purposefully means transcending self-centered goals and connecting with something greater. It’s about serving others, pursuing meaningful relationships, growing personally, and contributing to your community. Your dash becomes a testament to your character, your compassion, and your commitment to making the world a better place.
Practical Reflection: Maximizing Your Dash
Consider your current life trajectory. Are you merely existing, or are you truly living? Take time for self-reflection. Identify your core values, set meaningful goals, and commit to personal growth. Every day is an opportunity to add depth and meaning to your dash. And life only has meaning when lived for a cause higher than self.
Remember, your dash is uniquely yours. No one else can live it for you. As Oscar Wilde said, “be yourself, everyone else is already taken.” Embrace challenges, cultivate relationships, pursue your passions, whatever your hands find to do – do it with all your might, always strive to leave a positive legacy, and live for Someone or something higher than yourself.
You Are Not A Cosmic Accident!
Has Linda Ellis’ poem inspired you? You can get a poster of the poem to mount on your wall.
You can get a copy of Linda’s book here:
Perhaps you’d like a vinyl decal of C.T. Stubbs verse that you can place as a convenient reminder for you.
Here’s a short biography about C.T. Stubbs for your reading pleasure.
Would you like to determine your unique design? Click here to learn more about a tool that’s been developed and refined for over 100 years that measures your aptitudes and then shows you the careers that fit your unique design.
