Leaving a Legacy

What do you want to leave behind when you leave this world? What unexpressed truths do you need to spell out? There is truth in the saying, “Last words are lasting words.” This is your opportunity to say those things you most need to say and your loved ones most need to hear.

I know one man who, prior to a trip overseas to a war-torn area, wrote “just in case” letters to his wife and two sons. The experience was powerful and deeply moving. He tried to put into words his deep love for his family and his highest, best hopes for each family member.

I know the final truths I want to leave may change between today and some future day (if it is my destiny to have a future day). But still, I write my wishes and plan to update them regularly.

For my legacy, I encouraged my family to embrace the following values, actions, reminders, and habits:

• Choose love
• Fear forward
• Forgive
• Live in peace
• Find your purpose
• Laugh daily
• Suffering exists; dwell on joy
• Teach truth about Jesus Christ
• Celebrate moments
• Respect others
• Grow daily
• Live a meaningful life
• Love God and others deeply
• Have fun

These are the principles I hope to instill in my loved ones and leave behind when I go. What about you? What lessons, experiences, and wisdom would you like to impart to those who will one day read them?

Discussion with your family may begin a new legacy of intergenerational love, faith, and wisdom transfer. Encourage those you know to do the same regardless of age or health status. Record your thoughts in writing, digital written file, audio file, and/or through a video diary and your perfectly imperfect, big, beautiful life will impact those who follow you.

We each leave legacies. The good, the bad, and the ugly are often present. Intentional legacy changes us as well as our generational line who we may never meet. Your ending moment is known only by God but living with the end in mind prepares you and those you love for when that moment occurs, and leaves them with the gift of wisdom and guidance from you that will last far beyond your time on earth.

Pray With Me

Heavenly Father, thank you for the wisdom and guidance you provide to shape my life and legacy. Grant me the strength to live each day with love, purpose, and joy, so that I might leave a lasting impact filled with your grace and truth.