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What will we be remembered for?

The older we get, the more we think about how we've lived our lives. We all want to "make a mark", to be remembered by someone; to hope that what we've done and how we lived was actually relevant. Most of us live in "small" worlds, not public or spectacular, and wonder if we made a difference at all.

What will we be remembered for? Did we have friends who loved us? Did we leave a legacy-children and grandchildren to pass on our family name? Will anyone notice our absence or grieve when we are gone?

To "leave a mark" in the world, we have to realize that everything we do and everything we say effects someone. Our words and actions have consequences. There are always choices to make. Did we show kindness and compassion, or were we short, abrupt and rude? Just one act of rudeness can effect the impression someone takes away from an encounter. That impression is one facet of our reputaion. It can be told to someone else and can take on a life of its own.

On the other hand, one act of love, a kind word, or a hug given in sympathy will teach those you touch something about your character and who you are. Were we kind? Were we generous with what we had and giving of our time? Did we show love and compassion or mercy?

As we grow, we learn and adapt and gain knowledge and skill in many areas of our lives. Did we share with others what we learned? Did we attempt to be helpful, or did we use all of our resources and assets to "get ahead" and selfishly helped only ourself?

Since we are a society obsessed with what we see, even our daily demeanor can add to our reputation. Are we pleasant to be around? Are we the kind of person people gravitate towards? Do people enjoy our company? Do they seek our advice and ask our opinions and value them? Or do people dread seeing us coming. Are we solemn and reserved, keeping to ourself, and never smiling?

Like a stone tossed into water creates ripples, every person we see or talk to will take away an impression of who and what we are. The choices we make will build that impression. Those impressions will be the facets of our lives and become pieces of the legacy we leave behind. What will we be remembered for?

Learn more about this author, EstherLou.
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