How do you live your dash

An acquaintance of mine just sent this to me. It’s nothing new, but it’s been a long time since I’ve read it. It literally brings tears to my eyes. Just another reminder of how precious life is. Make the most of your Dash!

The Dash Poem – 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 tombstone
From the beginning to the end

He noted that first came the date of her birth
And spoke 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 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 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?

Happy RD Day!

March is National Nutrition Month and today, my friends,  is Registered Dietitian Day.

In celebration of health and nutrition, what’s ONE small change you can make to your life to be healthier? Whether it involves nutrition, physical activity, or something more spiritual in nature, why not take one step towards healthier, happier living.

Some examples:

*Try a new exercise class, like yoga or dance

*Take a 15 minute walk in the morning, or when you get home from work (That’s mine!)

*Go to the supermarket  and try one fruit or vegetable you’ve never had

*Get cookin’–try a new recipe, perhaps with the ingredient above

*Take a visit to your local farmer’s market and see what’s in season.

*Get more sleep! Try turning in for the night 15-30 minutes earlier.

*Meditate or sit in quiet for 15 minutes each day.

Whatever you choose to do, it doesn’t have to–and shouldn’t–be big. Just one small step!

Here’s to your good health!