In the short dash between the day you came into this world and the day you’ll depart, your life’s story unfolds. It’s a narrative woven from experiences, dreams, and the steady guidance of faith. Within this unassuming yet powerful symbol, we find ourselves pondering a question of profound significance: How can we create a legacy that enriches our relationships, strengthens our wisdom, and inspires generations to come?

Think of that dash as a journey, a path laden with choices that mold our lives. It brings to mind the timeless words of Robert Frost: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by.” Our choices, like the roads we traverse, not only shape our lives but leave an indelible mark on those we touch.

Visualize this dash as a canvas, where each day is a brushstroke in the painting of our existence. “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight,” as Proverbs 4:7 wisely conveys. Each day presents the canvas for us to contribute to a work of art enriched with wisdom and insight.

Within this dash, each day represents a page in the book of your life, with you as the author. As Maya Angelou poignantly said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Our legacy is the impression we leave on the hearts of others.

The dash mirrors life’s highs and lows, much like the trials and triumphs we encounter. James 1:2-4 underscores the value of perseverance: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Within this dash, we gather moments that create the tapestry of our existence – the joy of companionship, the warmth of loved ones’ smiles, and the serenity found in quiet moments. These moments form the very fabric of life, and each new day is an opportunity to contribute to this rich tapestry.

Your journey unfolds like a treasure hunt, with the dash as the vault where you unearth treasures of love, happiness, and personal growth. Albert Einstein’s wisdom resounds: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” These treasures form the foundation of a legacy worth leaving.

The dash represents a song, a symphony of experiences and emotions, with each day contributing a note to this beautiful composition. As Psalm 34:14 reminds us, “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” The song you create with your life lingers in the hearts of those you touch.

Life isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the journey itself. The dash symbolizes your canvas, your story, and your collection of moments. The lessons you share, the impact you make, these are the threads of a legacy that extends beyond your time.

On every headstone, there lies a dash, a simple yet profound reminder that your life not only matters but is recorded in the hearts of those who knew you. The dash is the testament to the remarkable lives we lead, leaving an enduring mark for generations to come.

Josh Mullins