A legacy may take many forms – children, grandchildren, a business, an ideal, a book, a community, a home, or some piece of ourselves. Our legacy naturally intrigues us. Understandably, we would want to know how the world will remember us after we’re gone. How many of us will be surprised? How many of us live so that our legacy reflects all that we genuinely hold most near and dear? How many of us are living with integrity and courage?
Leaving a legacy is a human need. It is, in part, selfish – we want to feel immortal. We also want to feel like we matter in the vast sea of humanity. The idea of leaving something behind that will “live forever” is appealing. By connecting with those at the beginning of their lives, we complete a full circle in life’s journey and leave some of our “selves” – our experiences, ideas, values, and personal example – in the minds and hearts of others. But leaving a legacy also has a generous component. What kind of society are we building if we don’t leave a positive legacy? What kind of world are we leaving behind? What are we passing on to our children and grandchildren?
The world isn’t connected only by molecules. It’s joined by stories, traditions, memories, hopes, and dreams. The legacies connect us passed down from those who came before us, and the gifts we pass down to those who come after us.
For both young and old, the power of legacy enables us to live fully in the present. You understand that you are part of a larger community, a community that must remember its history to build its future. There is caring combined with a conscience. There is also wisdom in each other – linking action and reflection to deal with complex problems.” [1]
Today I have two guests representing legacy from two different perspectives: mother and daughter. Additionally, they are building a legacy together across cultures and miles.
Be encouraged by their story.
[1] http://www.legacyproject.org/guides/whatislegacy.html
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Until next time, remember,-
You are not alone.
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You are not your circumstances.
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You have everything within you to live a purpose-filled life.
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