Friday
Aug282009
"The Dash"
Friday, August 28, 2009 at 5:00AM While we await the next challenge (that will go up on Sept 1), I thought I'd share a touching poem that Lisa found. I don't know about you, but I find that one of the main things that comes with the death of a loved one (aside from the pain and the loss) is a resolve to make the most of my own life. I don't always remember that...and find myself caught up in the day to day...but when I read something like this poem, it just all comes rushing to the forefront again. Click here to read the poem...then leave a comment, if you'd like, about something you've done lately that makes you proud of how you're living your life.
And. Have a fabulous weekend!
Reader Comments (10)
Thanks for that wonderful poem! I'd seen an email with that poem some years ago, but I'd forgotten about it. That is such a powerful, thought-provoking poem.
I love it because it really makes you stop and think about today and what your life is all about.
In the last few years, after a serious car accident I was forced to rehash my dash. It turns out that this was a good thing. I have learned to live everyday like it's the last because you just don't know when it will be. Never take the people you love for granted (although this is easier said than done) and always hug the people you love.
Loved this poem and it again reminded me that my dash should not be taken for granted. Thank you!!
I am spending more time with my parents and being patient with them (my dad is very high maintenance). I pay closer attention to what they have to say - especially old memories - and try to cherish the time that we have left. They are both in their mid-80's and doing well - but that could so easily change.
I love this poem! What an incredible reminder to make the most of life and the dash. Something I've been doing lately is participating in the 29 Day giving challenge. The gifts don't have to be financial-driven (of course they CAN, but it's not required) ... some days I just send a card to a friend to let her know I'm thinking about her, or told someone how much it means to me to have them in my life. I always find that I receive so much in giving - it's nice to have a reminder to do it daily!
What's the 29 Day giving challenge, Jen? It sounds interesting!
Oops - I thought I linked it in my post ... but I'm clueless with HTML.
The website is http://givingchallenge.ning.com/ - basically you make a commitment to give for 29 days (long enough to develop a habit!)
Some quotes from their website:
"Why? Because to see our world change, we have to do something to change our world. Plus, the best way to attract abundance into your life is to be in a perpetual state of giving and gratitude. Be an important part of the global giving movement that inspires more generosity on our planet."
"Your 29 gifts can be anything given to anyone... money, food, old sweaters, smiles, your time, kind words or thoughts."
I particularly enjoy RAKs as gifts (paying for the cars behind me at Starbucks, leaving a large tip, etc.) but sometimes it's something as simple as giving myself the time to enjoy a nap instead of feeling guilty about chores. Or sending a card just to say hi. It's been fun!
Thanks, Jen! I'll take a look.
Love this poem. After being diagnosised with Cancer in 2006 and then having surgery and then a complication of a blood clot I am just thankful for each day I wake up breathing. What I focus on is trying to make someone smile each day even when I don't feel like smiling myself some days.
This is a beautiful poem. Thanks for sharing, Lisa and Amanda!