It was the day after my father’s eulogy and the question of “what would my legacy be?” was rattling through my brain. I gave the eulogy at both my parents' funerals and over the years I have met some very successful people such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Belushi and Christy Hefner. Could I write my own eulogy? Is it possible to define the legacy I'm leaving?
I know legacy means different things to different people — and is recognized predominantly as a something to aim for to prove one's own personal achievements. It’s used to describe those who’ve accomplished great things; those who’ve passed down knowledge and ideals, who’ve influenced social values through their actions. Or in today world it would be a politician, movie star, or professional athlete making millions of dollars.
So, what is the difference between the legacy my parents left and the one that today’s society dictates? True success doesn’t seek recognition, it doesn’t seek fame, nor power, it doesn’t seek to force power, fame, or fortune. ‘Legacy’ is something that to many individuals is the definer of achievement. But whose achievement?
Which brings me to my main question: what is a True Legacy? If it’s not defined by being recognized for fame or fortune, then what is it? I have always admired people like George Washington, Sister Theresa, Martin Luther King or even Mr. Rogers. Did they set out for personal gain, to be celebrated or was it what they did in times of turmoil that made them famous? For my parents it was how they lived their daily life that defined their legacy. The values such as being unselfish and caring that they instilled in their family. It was about how they treated their family, friends and even their enemies. And ultimately the faith that they had in Jesus Christ until their dying days.
Looking back to my younger days, I aimed so desperately for approval and recognition to prove my success that the act of being recognized became my prime motivator. What’s interesting is that my parents and the legendary people I admire all followed Jesus and they ultimately left behind great legacies without looking to be famous in the first place.
As I looked at the prominent figures in my life, I realized that they were known for their commitment, their honesty, their kindness, their sense of humility, and the fact that their legacy wasn’t about themselves. It was about how they treated others even as they were thrust into overcoming the major challenges of life. They knew what was truly important, the tasks to be accomplished for the greater good, whatever that may be, however big or small.
So, in the end a personal legacy is an empty meaningless notion that will leave you even more miserable than you were at the beginning. Treat others with respect, stay positive, retain your humility, be honest and genuine, and keep your head down while focusing on what’s truly important — Jesus. Do what Jesus would do in tough times and it probably won’t be long before you are on your way to creating a True Legacy, a legacy as a disciple, an apostle of Jesus applying everything that you learn from Him to living your life as you prepare for eternity in heaven with your BFF.
In my painting “A True Legacy” St. Paul is mentoring Timothy as to the ways of Jesus. It is a real example for anyone who aspires to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Also, ironically it happens that my name is Paul and I have a brother by the name of Tim. So, more reason for the title. You know it’s funny how God works in our lives and sometimes we don’t even see it when it's right in front of our face.
As we know in the bible it tells us that Paul as Saul a Jew who persecuted followers of Jesus. Paul pursued disciples all the way to Damascus, with the intent of jailing them and probably of killing them (Acts 9:1 which mentions “murderous threats”) Paul had an encounter with the risen Christ (Acts 9: 1-19). Blinded and transformed into a disciple of Jesus Christ Paul is one of the greatest apostles ever born.
Seated above Paul and Timothy in the tree are Jesus and the twelve Apostles. The tree represents not only the coming of the Holy Spirit and eternal life, but the deep roots, the depth of love Jesus had for His followers, and they have for Him. When I die, just like the Apostles I want my legacy to be His Legacy.
And I don’t want to leave a legacy I want to leave Words from scripture, stories, paintings, songs and dreams for God's children for generations to come. My children are His children, and His children are my children. When I die, just like the Apostles I want my legacy to be His Legacy. A True Legacy that includes ONLY JESUS!
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