I grew up a quarter mile from a small rural cemetery. I often walked up the hill to wander through or play hide-and-seek amongst the gravestones. Though childhood friends frequently asked me if I was scared to live so close to a cemetery, I was never nervous or afraid. The gravestones were just markers of history, representations of real people who lived and died in my little part of the world. Most stones had more than one name etched in the granite, some whole families, with birth and death dates going back many decades.

Have you noticed how a gravestone’s birthdate and death date are always separated by a little line? That’s called an “en dash.” The en dash is used particularly between figures to show a range, like 1939–1945. It’s just a short dash with a very important job.

The en dash on a gravestone represents a whole life—everything that happens to a person between the time they are born and the time they die. As I grow older, I’ve meditated on my own en dash. Though I’m in no hurry to reach the end of life, it is closer than my birth date. And I believe we should all periodically think about how we live our everyday lives.

I love my life. I try to make intentional decisions to stay healthy in every aspect so I can fully appreciate the wonderful gifts God has given to me. My husband, children, grandchildren, friends, and extended family are all blessings. I enjoy my work, my church, my neighborhood, and my little home.

But am I living a fully flourishing life? Are there areas where I can do better, be better, grow stronger and wiser? Here are a few questions I’ve pondered as I live my en dash life:

• How’s my physical health? Am I getting enough sleep? Do I try to move daily and maintain a healthy diet?

• What brings me joy? Do I choose activities that challenge my mind? Do I talk to myself as a close friend or my worst enemy? What am I grateful for?

• Are my relationships healthy and supportive? Where do I invest my time and talents? Do I have a community of friends and family with whom I can really connect?

• Are my activities energizing and meaningful? What am I most proud of? Is it time to make a change in my career or commitments?

• How do I spend my money? Am I in control of my finances? Am I prepared for any unexpected expenses?

• How do I reflect the love of Christ in my sphere of influence? Am I pursuing a growing relationship with God? How about my spiritual disciplines?

• Looking back on my life, do I have old habits and beliefs I can now let go of? Are there any dreams I’d like to pursue? What would I do if I didn’t fear failure?

As I enjoy each moment with my grandchildren, I’m so grateful for the life God has given me, but I also know I have a responsibility to live it with joy, grace, and wisdom.

And I want my en dash to represent a life lived fully flourishing for God and others.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

2 Timothy 4:7-8