Ready for ’07

As we stand here at the doorstep of 2007 and get ready to turn the doorknob, I can’t help but poppin’ on my iPod and listening to reflective songs from say, Coldplay or The Fray. For some reason I like to make the transition into the new year with a music video created by myself, in my head, using my memories and my music. Ok, I admit, my methods may be strange, but I think the process is still important. It’s important to access where you were, where you’re going, and where you really want to be. Hopefully the last two things match up. Jason and I did this together over some hot chocolates yesterday at Starbucks. (Who says coffee shops are only for coffee lovers.) Being a visual person, we made a web, which led to some good discussions and planning. I’m ready for ’07!

Without trying to be Ferris Bueller here, I feel that life does move pretty fast. As much as I roll my eyes at the many “New Years Resolutions” that people proudly pronounce on Dec. 31st and are done and over with by Jan. 15th, I do feel that planning ahead and communication with those involved in your plans is a very important process. Just the act of writing down your goals will put you miles closer to achieving them.

This summer I heard a wise man share this poem by Linda Ellis. It’s a great way to put things in perspective as we start 2007. Happy New Year!!!

The Dash

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 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?