What may be your life legacy?

Let's first say that I didn't think my first blog post would be on this topic. My initial blog post content changed because I felt a pull to share this message.

My nana recently passed away, and as I was grieving her loss, I was comforted by the legacy she left behind. She, like all of us, had many flaws. Yet, there were countless positive imprints she left on the lives of those she loved around her.

Nana was always thoughtful in preparing snacks for me and for my five brothers and sisters for a church softball game. Pretzels and M&M's. As a little girl, I remember hopping over to Nana with an impatient stance, waiting for her to inevitably reach into her bag and pull out the golden treat in its iconic snack bag style. It became apparent to me the impact she left on our family when I was sobbing over the snack bag that labeled my spot in the pew during her funeral service. She was consistently thoughtful of others.

As you consider your life currently, consider not just what you will be known for but how you will positively impact those around you after you're gone. You may be known as a 'this title' or 'that thing', but how does that thing or status change those around you? A legacy, in my opinion, leaves behind a memory and a positive impact. Since my nana's passing, I've realized the legacy she left behind for me: a legacy of loving and considering others before herself.

Perhaps if you held the title of a highly esteemed profession, it will inspire those after you are gone. Or perhaps, being a woman who simply took every opportunity to love others around her will be enough to leave a legacy. My nana had many different jobs, while none of them prestigious, she left a great impact. My point is, your status or title does not automatically earn leaving a positive legacy for those around you.

So what may be your legacy? What do you think stands out to people most about your life, good or bad? Is it that you were accomplished but you overcommitted and couldn't do any one particular thing well? Or that you were accomplished yet also maintained your values in life? I'd challenge you to think long term as you consider how you spend your days -- what may be your life legacy to those whom you impact? Comment below on what you desire to positively impact after you're gone!

Thanks for reading,