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 tombstone
from the 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.
Not, how did she die, but how did she live?
Not, what did she gain, but what did she give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a woman as a woman, regardless of her birth.
Nor what was her church, nor what was her creed?
But had she befriended those really in need?
Was she ever ready, with words of good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say,
but how many were sorry when she passed away?
By Summer Sandercox
Thinking of all Sylvia (Mrs Rickey)’s family and sending love. I have many fond memories of Sylvia and her gentle, kind influences on my childhood and beyond. From our family to yours, condolences on the passing of a loved, lifelong friend. Jacquie and family.
Leave your tribute for Mrs Sylvia Gladys Heather Rickey