2016 is going to be remembered as the year we lost many American icons, personal friends, and family members. It begs the question, “What is going on!”
In Proverbs 22:1 Solomon says “A good name is rather to be chosen that riches, and loving favor rather than silver or gold.” What is left behind are two things, the personal belongings (riches), and the “Legacy” of who the person was to those around them. We all agreed the money or wealth is the least important to us. Many are spoiled by the wealth. To us, it seemed like a building named after us for what we “did” rather than what we “gave” was more exciting, and meaningful. Think of those cool guys like John Glenn and Neal Armstrong, those famous Astronauts whose names grace many schools, roadways, and bridges.
On my birthday, December 23rd, I woke like most do and my family told me happy birthday! I then quickly found out my good friend RK Mosier had died of a heart attack at age 41 that morning. He left two boys aged 10 and 12, and a sweet wife. He left a tremendous name for them. I found myself the following week at his funeral in such an odd state. I wasn’t emotional. I was almost smiling through the whole thing. I was so “proud” of him. He did it right. He was a tremendous husband and father. His focus was right where it needed to be. He will be missed, he will be remembered, and his loved ones can be proud of who he was for the rest of their lives. That right there is as good as gold. Take that one to the bank folks!
So what can we all do from this point forward to cement the legacy we will leave behind? Tony Dungy remarks in his book Uncommon Life that building memories is one way to cement a legacy, remembrance, and appreciation. It takes time. Take out time to create memories. So, spend time with your kids, your wife, and your friends. Volunteering your time is another excellent way.
In conclusion we talked about leaving a letter behind to share with your loved ones. Many of us never get around to it, so I provided a starter letter* to each Men’s Life attendee. I suggested to fill it out, so you have something. Maybe it isn’t perfect, but it is something. Then, go ahead and try to do another perfect letter, if you get around to it. Like my dad always says, I’d rather it be 85% right and have done it, than wait until I know 100% what I want to say.
*The “Starter Letter” can be found on page three of the lesson notes.