Donna M. Howell

The Dash

Donna M. Howell

January 6, 1945 – August 23, 2022

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

He referred to the dates on his tombstone from the beginning… to the end.

He noted that first came the date of 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 they spent alive 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?

The Angels gathered near your bed so very close to you.

For they knew the pain and suffering that you were going through.

Oh, how I wished that you were strong and happy once again.

But I knew it would take so much strength to get you on the mend.

Your eyes were looking homeward to that place beyond the sky.

Where Jesus held His outstretched arms, it was time to say goodbye.

I’ve struggled with my selfish thoughts, for I wanted you to stay.

So I could walk and talk again, like we did – just yesterday.

I will miss you every day and do my best not to be sad.

For I know you are in heaven, finally reunited with Dad!

I love you, Mom!