Leaving a Legacy Wed, Nov 14, 2018

“The idea of leaving a legacy is the need or the desire to be remembered for what you have contributed to the world. In some cases, that contribution can be so special that the universe is unalterably changed. However, for most mere mortals walking this earth, most will leave a more modest legacy that doesn't necessarily change the world but does leave a lasting footprint that will be remembered by those whose lives you touched.”

Last month we had a very close family friend pass away. Tina was the most loving, fun, positive, honest, and faithful person I have ever met. She was an extremely talented woman who wrote her own music and started a choir to share their uplifting message (The Latter Day Ambassadors). Her choir and songs are a huge part of her legacy. She helped countless people overcome obstacles and difficult times in their lives not only through her music but by being the person you could turn to for advice, for a laugh or for a shoulder to lean on.

This got me thinking about the legacy that I will leave behind. I immediately panicked. I haven’t started a choir, or a foundation or accomplished anything noteworthy. There is an article titled “5 Ways to Leave a Great Legacy” and the author, Joan Moran, lists the following ways we can do this:

1) Support the people and causes that are important to you

2) Reflect and decide what is most important in your life

3) Share your blessings with others

4) Be a mentor to others

5) Pursue your passions because they are infectious

Tina did every single one of these things and more. I may never do anything extraordinary in my life, but I do have my three sons and I want to leave a legacy full of love, faith and kindness for them. I think the 5 ways listed above are a great place to start.