Weekly Connections with Brian Lafontaine July 27, 2025
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The phrase “live your dash” comes from one of the most well-known poems in the world – The Dash by Linda Ellis. It refers to the small line between the year of your birth and the year of your death. To “live your dash” is a reminder to be conscious of the fact that our time on earth is limited.
The dash represents not only the duration of a person’s life but also how they choose to spend that time. In her poem, Linda Ellis encourages readers to reflect on what they would like to change about their “dash” or their lives before it comes to an end.
I had the honor of knowing a remarkable woman named Betsy. She was one of my best friends, a devoted mother and wife, and a cherished part of my wedding. Above all, one of God’s greatest gifts. On December 22, a few years ago, she passed away after living her life to the fullest. After a brave eight-year battle with ALS, she left us. Despite her illness, her love for life and infectious sense of humor, her deep faith in the Lord, and her compassion for others genuinely inspired those around her. Even when she lost the ability to move, Betsy never lost faith in living her best life. One of her favorite poems was The Dash, and she often reminded us of the importance of the time between our birth and death. It’s a humbling poem, and one that deserves to be shared:
Your Life comprises two dates and a dash—make the most of your dash, just like Betsy.
Monica Lucia is the Author of The Final Chapter and a passionate advocate for those navigating grief and loss. She is the Founder of Widow’s Den and Sisterhood of LKN, dedicated to supporting families In addition to her writing and community-building work, Monica is the Grief and Bereavement Counselor at Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home, Huntersville and Denver.
