A very dear friend of mine lost her father unexpectedly this past week. My husband, Elliot, and I were able to travel to the memorial and I was struck by the legacy that he has left behind and the joy that he gave to those around him. Ed Wahlbeck’s legacy is not only his four amazing children, their spouses, and his precious grandchildren, but also his efforts to give back to the community, specifically to children in need. You can find out more about his legacy and the scholarship fund in his name for children here.
Participating in the celebration of my dear friend’s father’s life got me thinking–what legacy do I want to leave behind?
A legacy can be defined as: “ what someone or something is remembered for or what they have left behind that is remembered, revered or has impacted current events and the present day.” Pretty dry. The dictionary definition is even worse–all to do with monetary bequests and middle English roots.
I see my legacy as, certainly, a work in progress, but also something that cannot be made or unmade in a day or a moment. My legacy is certainly the words and deeds that make up my day and week and month, but also the direction and focus of my goals and undertakings. It is found in the people I touch and see and the family that I was born into along with the one that I am creating. In sum, it is the whole, which is greater than the sum of its parts.
What will your legacy be?
Abigail
