Have you ever thought about that small line between the birth and death dates on a tombstone? That dash represents everything—your entire life, the people you loved, the choices you made, the legacy you left behind.

In this powerful episode of the BeTempered podcast, hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr invite you to reflect on what it means to live a life worthy of your dash. They share the extraordinary story of Michael "Pappy" Quinn, a humble tool and die maker from West Virginia whose legacy of love, faith, and servant leadership continues to inspire.

Mike’s life wasn’t measured by wealth or titles, but by how he made others feel. Kids from the neighborhood—many without father figures—walked miles just to play backyard football with him. When his brother was drafted for Vietnam, Mike asked to go in his place. He lived with wonder, joy, and unshakable faith—teaching life lessons through peanut butter bacon sandwiches, muddy puddle adventures, and quiet, intentional presence.

This episode will move you. It will challenge you. And it will ask the question: Are you living your dash with purpose? Are you showing up for the people who matter? Are you serving without expectation?

As the poem “The Dash” says:

Take a moment today to reflect on what kind of story your dash is telling. Then share this episode with someone who needs the reminder—because while we don’t choose when our dash begins or ends, we do choose how we fill it.

Support the show