What is the definition of legacy? According to the dictionary, a legacy is a gift that is handed down, endowed or conveyed from one person to another. My father gave me the gift of his work ethic and my mother the gift of humor. (One of my favorite experiences with her has been over the past few years, just laughing together. That came later in life, and I mention it because I want people to know it’s never too late to be given a new gift, memory, or profound experience. In other words, your parents or others may not have “bestowed” or even have been able to do so when you were a child, yet the legacy is tremendous whenever we receive it.)
My grandparents endowed their spiritual beliefs and a strong value system, of which me and generations after me will be so thankful. My uncle, gentleness and grace. My sister has given me unconditional love and support no matter what. And my brother, pure happiness with his simultaneously strong and fun spirit.
I can think of teachers who conveyed pure kindness and deep empathy and friends that have given me joy in the face of life’s difficulties. Heck, I can even think of authors and speakers, that have used their gifts to inspire me and spur me on toward growth. All of these and more have strengthened me by sharing their gifts.
I share these to get your minds to stir up those in your life that have impacted you. Those who have made you better and stronger and helped create your story. Legacy is not always from someone who is no longer with us… We can and should in fact take time to honor those who are still present. To acknowledge their impact, express our gratitude and reinforce their purpose. When I was preparing this, I found some insights on writing down your legacy and why you may want to do so …
- Embrace how much you have learned from life.
- Offer a gift of your learning, experience and values to others.
- Tell someone how much they have meant to you and give a blessing.
- Recognize what’s most important as you navigate the road ahead
This idea of “Whose legacy do you need to honor” today came from the epic @robinnyc, my favorite Peloton instructor. I hope you will take time to honor someone today who has or is making an impact on your life. Spreading joy is oh so important and today seems like the absolute perfect time to do just that.
