Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people. —Peter Strople
Reflections of great leaders, Ghandi, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King…are a few examples of living a life of serving others. Did they know or were they conscious of the legacy that they would leave behind? There is no doubt they left “gifts” behind for all of us to cherish as we take servant leadership further into our life and lives of others
Each day we have choices. We can choose to make a difference in how you inspire or influence those you lead or not.
If you believe legacy involves “leaving something ‘in’ people” then our choice becomes natural. How often do you choose the uncharted path, the unknown to live your life fully following your vision? I have become very conscious of my decisions and how to serve at a higher level than before. It wasn’t because I wasn’t aware before, but now for many reasons I have more knowledge and desire to serve and lead those around me. That is where our legacy begins…at each decision or choice point. Embrace your decision and own what they mean for you, those around you and those who will only hear about you years from now.
The lens of legacy gives you a view of your life from a generational perspective, where you become aware of the desire to live beyond yourself, focused on making a difference in the lives of others and giving back. The legacy you leave is the life you lead and therefore legacy is the residue of a life well lived.
When Ghandi was sitting in a prison cell he held tight to the vision of making a difference for others. He will never be forgotten for his sacrifices for others.
Our family lost an incredible woman last month as my Aunt, Iris Ciesielski surrendered to the next phase of her existence. Her death was not the end, her legacy lives beyond her time above ground. Our family celebrated her life and recognized she is where she is now. We also agreed to continue living and telling her stories. Close your eyes and feel the stories and memories of someone you loved but lost recently. What will people feel about you when you are where you are supposed to be years from now? What will they say at your Memorial service?
May I ask…what will you leave behind as your legacy? Will you as a leader of self, family, friends and communities make a conscious decision to serve others in a way that inspires others to live a life of legacy.
I know I am making a difference in those I serve to empower them to live their vision so that their inspirational vision can empower others to inspire and influence and their world.
How do I know? I feel it , I hear it and I see it. That is my truth!
What I choose to leave behind as my legacy for my sons, “Dad inspired us.” That is what I would wish to be on my tombstone and to be remembered by others. To inspire without attachment of the outcome.
Live and serve a life of legacy…
Greg
