Legends Never Die

A legend is someone who leaves an indelible mark on our lives. This is the person who enters the room and changes the atmosphere, filling the empty spaces with warmth and acceptance. These souls are never forgotten, like a sweet fragrance, lingering as a lasting impression. They touch hearts and leave a legacy that echoes on, breathing life into others even after taking their last breath. Ironic, isn't it? Whether famous or not, the power of legacy is that it outlives us. You don't need to live larger than life to leave a legacy. You just need to find your purpose in this world and bless others every day, without expecting credit or fame. That means living your faith out loud and creating moments that matter. We have all been to those impactful funerals where mourners share memories of the unsung hero in the casket. Those services are standing-room only because of legacy leavers.

So, what guiding principles set these folks apart? I've often wondered what shared characteristics they have. Here they are: First, they are thoughtful and intentional. They live with the end result in mind and their choices are guided by a sense of destiny rather than personal convenience. Legacy leavers choose to leave the world better off than they found it because they realize that life is a precious and fragile gift. They would rather seek justice for others than insist on justice for themselves. They are guided by the divine rather than the temporal, and to that end, they tend to be reflective and prayerful. They love recklessly, despite rejection. A life of legacy is NEVER a life of selfishness; material possessions are a practical tool rather than a personal goal. Legendary people turn their pain into purpose and heal the broken. Legends walk among us every day. Silent. Unnoticed. Giving their all.

It's ALS Awareness Month, and I would be remiss not to mention my brother, Stephen. May 12th is his one-year anniversary in Heaven. I think of the legacy that he leaves behind. Oh, his life wasn't perfect and neither was our relationship. But that changed when he met Jesus. From that moment forward, his old nature vanished, and his trajectory changed. He became affectionate, grateful, thoughtful, and expressive. The last year of his life was a testament to the transformative power of Christ. Every doctor and nurse saw the love of God through his eyes, temperament, and behavior--even when he couldn't utter a single word. His smile illuminated the fifth floor of Cleveland Clinic, and my son experienced the unconditional love of an uncle who had made peace with God. His legacy was not determined so much by the way he lived as it was by the way he died. Joyful. Forgiven. Selfless. Whole. Free.

Lastly, as Mother's Day approaches, remember that you are a living legend. The decision you make today impacts tomorrow. Whether your children are biological or spiritual, your guidance and mentorship matter! Recognize teachable moments and embrace new possibilities with intention. Close the door on unproductive distractions that steal your time and drain your energy. Motherhood is the greatest calling and God has gifted you with that mantle to pass the torch to posterity. Stop scrolling. Lock in and listen to their stories. Point their hearts toward God and their feet toward destiny. Never underestimate your worth or your purpose here on Earth. No sacrifice is insignificant because you are building legacy; special moments created today become cherished traditions in the next generation. But most importantly, let LOVE be the legacy by which you are remembered.

John 13:35 (AMP)

By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.