- Are you a leader worth following?
- Are you leaving a legacy worth leaving?
As women ponder their answers, their initial thoughts might range from, Oh my, you are intense!, to that is none of your business! Or Geez, I have never thought about that!
This blog is going to focus on legacy in an effort to challenge you to get clear on your purpose. People who are conscious of their legacy, want to know their life mattered and they made a difference. This desire gives their life meaning and purpose, deep clarity and direction. Ultimately it is something we can pass onto the next generation, in tangible or intangible ways.
Legacy is top of mind as my Dad died 2 weeks ago at the ripe old age of 100. As I sat at his bed side for his last days with my sisters, we reminisced about his life and his legacy.
My dear friend Dr. Roz told me:
“We die twice, the first time is when we leave the earth, the second time is the last time our name is spoken.” Dr. Roz
We can influence how long that time frame is and how long our name is remembered.
Dad clearly left a legacy of love. He was a gentle, solid, dearly beloved man raised in Quaker humility. He was more likely to ask questions rather than give his opinion, he listened, he remembered. He drew people to him like moths are drawn to light. When you were in his presence, you felt confident things would be alright. He gave people confidence (even allowing them to borrow his when they were still uncertain). Because he loved people and respected them, they reciprocated. Truthfully, my father was a very wealthy man, he was rich in relationships. And a treasure hold of love and respect. He understood without love we are bankrupt. This was lived out by being happily married for a total of 76 years. He found love and companionship, outliving both of his wives. Then again it was experienced when his entire family gathered to celebrate his 90th birthday for 4 days together. The environment was one of love, acceptance and fun. For his 100th birthday last November, once again it was centered on loving well, as Dad had modeled for so many years. Finally as we gathered around his death bed for 17 days, it was filled with stories, admiration, love, songs, connection and good food. A rich heritage that was and is being passed on.
This blog runs on the personal side, yet I know we have all lost a loved one or have had someone close to us die. The best description of grief I have heard is love with no place to go. I certainly have experienced sadness this last month, yet I know that love has places to go. It is to the people in my tribe and beyond.
Join Circle of Trust!
If you are looking for a group of like-minded women, you need community that is supportive, I highly recommend you join the Circle of Trust Facebook group.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/c2scircleoftrust
Much love to you and if this stirs up some questions, please feel free to reach out to me. I am happy to create time to chat with you.
XoX
Betsy