David’s Dash has been created to help David continue the journey he wasn’t able to
complete, and has been inspired by Linda Ellis’ poem, The Dash.
David’s life was cut short before he could experience many of life’s joys, big and small. He
had plans; some of which he achieved, and many left waiting. Our hope is that this space
can be filled with stories, achievements, and experiences which celebrate all the good things
life can offer. We invite you to extend David’s Dash … post your location on the map, add
some photos, share some words …
We want to honour David’s life and inspire others to live in the light. As we develop this
space, we hope it will support others who may be struggling to continue their journey and
achieve their dreams; or those affected by a life’s journey cut short.
'The Dash' by Linda Ellis
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her casket from beginning to the end.
He noted that first came the date of her 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
that she 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 would 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 is 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 have 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?