Everyone has a legacy

As we age, we begin to think about how we’ll be remembered when we are gone. In other words, what will our legacy be? Some may want tributes written for them that list all their accomplishments, all the organizations they were members of and any honors bestowed on them during their lifetime. Others may not care at all about such details.

Legacy by definition can refer to “an amount of money or property left to survivors.” It can also mean “the impact of a person’s messages and actions during his or her lifetime.”

Often, when someone refers to a person’s legacy, they are thinking of the money or property left behind. Most people like the idea of leaving something to their heirs. It brings comfort knowing loved ones will inherit their property, especially if it’s a house or a farm that’s been in the family for a number of years. Those who want to pass on assets to their children and grandchildren may even sacrifice their own financial comfort in order to save for their heirs.

The very rich among us have an automatic legacy shaped by their wealth. Many do share their wealth by establishing charitable foundations and giving away millions to those in need. Their legacy is shaped by their dedication to the welfare of others. They will be remembered for their service to others and for the commitment they made to their communities or organization, or to a particular cause.

Others may have made a long-lasting impact simply through contributions of their time - a gift perhaps of the greatest value.

On the other hand, there are those among the very rich who are never motivated by such altruism and never contribute any of their wealth, or their time in service to others.

Politicians mostly want to be remembered for their achievements. They measure the terms of their legacy by success in getting elected and re-elected; and how well they wield the powers of government. Some, however, do become champions of certain groups during their political careers and build their legacy committed to a particular cause.

On the other hand, there are politicians who hold office for decades and build no legacy for which they will be remembered because they do so little for the people who voted for them.

Legacies can be built without wealth. An important legacy for parents and grandparents to leave their children and grandchildren is their values. The things we say and do, the way we treat people, the way we conduct ourselves in business and personal relationships can have the most impact on their lives – far more than our savings or the number of acres we own. Hearing the eulogies recently for President Jimmy Carter during his funeral service brought home that message.

If I’ve learned anything in the last 10 years, it’s the realization that we live in a world today of conflicting values. Admirable behavior I once thought was the most necessary for a civilized society, no longer seems to apply. Disgraceful conduct I once assumed would put an end to a career or a political future, no longer counts people out. Today, we find people, even at the highest level, who are rude, crude, immoral, corrupt, hateful, dishonest – the list goes on – and they’re never held accountable, nor are they shunned or defeated.

In our society today, children are watching as people in power treat others ruthlessly and with contempt. They say vicious things about members of vulnerable groups and never suffer any consequences. Children hear adults insult people they don’t like, while other adults laugh and cheer at the comments.

Children today also “hear” the silence of adults in their midst who never speak up about the malicious language being used, never try to set the record straight even when they know lies are being told and never defend those being attacked by people in power.

If there is one overall value of the legacy I hope to leave to my family, it’s kindness. I want to leave them the trait of generosity of spirit. I want them to care about the vulnerable and to live their lives free of prejudice and hate. I want them to value honesty and respect and compassion.

My legacy for my children and grandchildren is to enhance their character, not just the bank account.