I want to leave a legacy on this world, even if most people don’t acknowledge it. Being remembered isn’t the most important part of leaving a legacy. The most important part is making a remarkable and positive change on people around you. If my legacy pushes other people to do great things, then I want my legacy to live on. I want people who live after me to act selflessly and to impact the lives of many people because I left an example to do so. I do not have to be remembered, but I at least want to start a chain reaction of goodness. I want to really help people, or at least just one person. I want to bring brightness or hopefulness to someone. You shouldn’t want to do something just because you want to be remembered. You should lead your own legacy because that’s what makes you happy and because deep down, you know it could affect another person in an amazing and life changing way.
Em, there is one line that really stands out to me: "I do not have to be remembered, but I at least want to start a chain reaction of goodness." I love the phrasing, and it also reminds me of today's stories about Bishop William White.
ReplyDeleteEmily, I like how you turned the prompt on its head by pointing out that being remembered isn't what's important at all. I love the idea that a legacy can be about affecting just one person, and that a legacy can live on through what you inspire in them, not necessarily in having your name widely recognized. It reminds me of this quote from the Hamilton musical: "What is a legacy? It's planting seeds in a garden you never get to see."
ReplyDeleteDear Emily,
ReplyDeleteI am thinking of this idea of a "chain reaction" of change, and how each of us has an obligation to help others. We recently watched two documentaries that really brought this to light: Won't You Be My Neighbor? (about Mr. Rogers) and RBG (about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg). While we can't all have that impact, we can still do good in the world. Thank you for the thoughtful words.
Sincerely,
Mr. Hodgson
Sixth grade teacher
Western Massachusetts
Indeed Emily. It is each of us affecting another that makes the real difference, that leads to real change.
ReplyDeleteWell thought out!! It brings me hope!
Third grade teacher
Yes, there are many more important things in life than being famous!
ReplyDeleteHi Emily;
ReplyDeleteI found your piece about creating a legacy to be very inspiring . I was moved particularly by the Line were you state " I do not have to be remembered but , I at least would like to start a chain reaction of goodness." I believe that you are imploring all of us to consider what is most important in life. Please keep writing!
Kindness is a tiny act that can have large impacts. Thank you for the reminder that we can be a part of the change in every encounter or opportunity.
ReplyDeleteI love your idea of starting a chain reaction of goodness. It does not have to be big events, just share a smile,a good morning or good afternoon. Touch someones life and you will be remembered. Being remembered with joy or love is not the same as famous. There are a lot of evil famous people. I hope to cross paths with you someday for I am sure you will bring joy into my life.
ReplyDeleteReading your thoughts on legacy inspires me to be an intentional participant in your "chain reaction of goodness".
ReplyDeleteThe line "chain reaction of goodness" reminded me of something my family started back in my home town. A distant family member of mine passed away a few years ago and to honor her we created little cards that said "pay it forward". After doing something kind for someone else you would simply hand them a card or leave it for someone else to find. It brought a smile to everyone's face no matter how little the gesture.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of a "chain reaction of goodness," too! It also really speaks to the importance of individuals having the power to leave a legacy greater than just their name of their personal story. It actually reminds me of lines from a Bob Marley song ("Live for yourself, and you live in vain/Live for others, and you'll live again").
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