Our Life is Building Our Legacy

 

Recently we had a death in the family - a beloved aunt who lived to be 90 years old and as we would say...had a long, full life. And it got me thinking about life and all the things we strive to do and be and make of our lives and in the end...well...we all come to the same conclusion.  

Then today, as I was catching up with all of my blogging friends, I read Shug's post about "The Dash" and it fit into my thoughts about life and what really matters.

So much of life is spent struggling to "be someone" or do something important. We strive to make a name for ourselves in whatever field we work in. We want to make money and live lives free from hardship. But none of that is going to matter when you're gone. 

What people are going to remember about you is who you were to them. Not to the world, but to them personally. How you impacted their life, is what they will think about, when they think about you. 

You could be famous or infamous, but how did you treat them? What did you teach them? How did they feel when they were in your presence? What good did you bring to them, personally? Even if they didn't know you personally, you will have had an impression on them, in one way or another. 

This beloved aunt I mentioned, was known for her amazing gift of hospitality. No matter the time of day or night you stopped by her house, she would throw together a meal that was worthy of 3 days worth of planning. She always had a smile and a story to share and she just made you feel welcomed, like you belonged right there on the porch swing, all along. You left her house feeling like you just stayed at the best bed and breakfast for miles around. And it was. 

When I think back to others in my life, who have already gone to be with Jesus, their occupation doesn't cross my mind, at all. It's their heart, their smile, their gifts of cooking or telling stories or generosity or wisdom that I remember. It's not what they did for a living, it's what they offered when you sat around the dinner table or beside them in church. It's what they offered when you needed advice or a hug or a soft place to land. Those are the things that stick with you. 

Likewise, there are those who have spent their lives with a sour look on their face, a negative word to say about everything and expectations that always put others on edge. They've spent their lives as takers, instead of givers, and it's how they will go down in history, as well. These are those who make you feel drained and filled with dread, at every encounter. We all know someone like this, whether a relative, a coworker or a friend, and let's be honest, they suck the life out of us.

Don't be them!

What's the point of this post? I guess just my thoughts about how much we strive and stress over jobs and bills and careers and accolades and money and big houses and fancy cars and the list goes on and on and you can accomplish all of that and yet, still not have anything good to offer. 

And how sad would that be?

Our goal in life should be to honor the Lord in all we do, but especially in how we love his people. Not in the hippy, dippy, "love everyone" kind of way, but in the real, genuine caring about someone's soul, kind of way. 

Have deep conversations. Take time for people. Invite them in. Tell stories that mean something and listen to their stories, as well. 

See the good in life and share that attitude. Make others feel good when you're around. Don't be a taker, but be the giver instead.

And on that note...I hope you have an amazing first day of October! 

Until Next Time...

Blessings!