I’ve been thinking a lot about the idea of legacy. Is it important to leave one? To whom is it important to leave one? Is your life a failure without one? Who are we without one? Is there anything out there to prove I ever existed in this world? I think these are questions that the majority of people ask, especially as they get older and begin to reflect on life.
I remember sitting with my grandmother in her living room, and she was very concerned about what her legacy would be when she was gone. In her mind, she had done nothing important enough to be considered a legacy. I disagreed. My grandmother raised four children with good morals and values. Those same morals and values were passed down to all of her grandchildren, and I imagine all the great grandchildren will get to share in her wisdom as well. For some people, the legacy left behind is reflected in the generations that get to inherit the good character of those who came before. I would not be who I am today without the positive influence of my parents, and four extremely loving grandparents who taught me how to be a good man, with good morals, and good values.
Many people can find their legacy in their purpose. I believe everyone wonders, “Why am I here? What purpose do I serve?” Those are questions I have asked myself repeatedly. I am not famous. I am not infamous. I am me, and it took a very long time to realize that being me is what I am meant to be. Nothing more, nothing less. My purpose has become to help others. My purpose is to be influential, and give hope to people who feel there is none available. I love that purpose. Will that be my legacy?
I have no siblings. I have no children. There is no one in my bloodline that I can pass on certain things to as my grandmother did. Sure, I have some writings that will be available after I’m gone but that does not tell the story of who I am. I believe that every individual will at one point in time have at least one other person that they will leave a lasting impact on. One other person that will tell their children, “I remember what ____ did for me, and it changed my life.” Legacies can be positive or negative, and how we treat others will determine which legacy you leave behind.
Legacy is important. Legacy is important to those you touch the most. Regardless of how you feel, you will leave a legacy behind. You are you! You are created unique, and designed to have a lasting impact on a world that doesn’t seem to care. The proof you existed in this world isn’t in fame or glory, it isn’t in wealth and riches, it isn’t in material possessions, and it isn’t in how many books you’ve written or songs you recorded. Your legacy, and the proof you were here will be reflected in the lives you touch without even realizing you’ve done so. If you are fortunate it will be reflected in your descendants, but your ultimate legacy will be reflected in the purpose you live your life for. No matter how many rough patches you hit, you can fulfill your purpose. The Apostle Paul struggled throughout his ministry, and the motivational speech God gave him was, “My grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9).” So if God’s grace was sufficient enough for Paul, so it will be for you. If you want a lasting positive legacy, it is in your control to be your legacy. Want not. Worry not. Live your life, fulfill your purpose, and leave your legacy.
Blessings.
Troy P Zehnder 