I ran across this little poem in some book, and although I can't recall who the author was (or the book for that matter), I trust they would not mind me sharing it with everyone especially at this time of year. As we all gather with family and friends for a celebration of Christmas, let's give an extra measure of thanks to all of our ancestors who came before us and made this country what it is today. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Everyone! Bob Carter Greensboro, NC ------------------------------------------------------ The Dash In Your Life 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 her date of birth And spoke the following date with tears But he said what mattered most of all Was the dash between those years (1934 - 1998) 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's being read With your life's actions to rehash Would you be proud of the things they say About how you spent your dash?