When you change jobs, not only do you get to learn a new computer system and get used to new people, you get to think about your mortality. Because that's usually a time of filling out life insurance forms and designating beneficiaries.
A few weeks ago, a family friend called to talk to me about buying some additional life insurance. I said, "I have no kids and no spouse. Why do I need more life insurance?" Yeah, I know it builds cash value and is considered part of a great portfolio, but really, I have no one who depends on me for their livelihood. That's strangely empowering yet disturbing.
So I started thinking about the difference between an inheritance and a legacy. Ideally, we'd leave both to those we love. But which is really more important?
It's been almost six years since my Mom died. My inheritance is long gone. But her legacy lives on. I think about all the Sunday afternoons she spent at the bar in the kitchen, trying to write the perfect note to someone she missed at church. Or all the many ways she showed me unconditional love, selfless giving, and everlasting optimism. She saw the good in everyone... she got that from her mother, who got it from her father, who I'm sure got it from one of his parents. Generation upon generation of a "do unto others" attitude. A legacy that has survived way past their deaths.
Granted, I have no children, but I wonder what people will remember about me when I'm gone. Right now I'm struggling with my headstone reading, "Here lies Lori... she went to lots of meetings." Or "Old Maid Who Never Changed Her Last Name." Or maybe "Here's Lori... she's finally done moving."
I asked my Mom once what she wanted on her epitaph, and she replied, "Here lies Donna Kay... she made a difference." Mom never had an important job. She never got that Cadillac she always wanted. And she certainly didn't leave a fortune to my brother or me. But she left something far greater... a legacy of faith, of love, and of family.... the things that truly last.
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6 comments:
you know your mom was one of the most loving and caring people i knew. I loved seeing her at church and even after i moved away i think i always got a hug from her on sunday mornings. It felt good to know that someone cared even when they werent part of your family!!:)
Here lies Kathy. She was hit by a car trying to cross the road to the next yard sale.
Oh, Memaw. You've left a tremendous legacy, and not just boxes of free tampons and lip gloss.
Thanks, Lori. Will you do my eulogy?
Of course, Memaw. Are you sure about that?
I think Memaw's HAS to say... "Is that a yard sale sign?!?" somewhere on her tombstone.
Lori, I miss your mom. I know I didn't get to be around her for too many years, but what an amazing woman she was! You'll, no doubt, have a similar legacy as hers. You're a great person, Lori!
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