We had the most amazing funeral for my Dad-in-law yesterday. I know that sounds strange but truly, it was amazing. I’m always humbled when I sit at a funeral and listen as someone’s legacy is summed up in a few words. When it’s all over, I almost always ask myself the same question…
If this was my funeral, what would they say about my life? What am I doing for other people? What am I doing that will make some kind of difference in someone’s life?
My Dad-in-law did plenty. He served on a Lay-Witness Team and traveled all over the South-East telling others about Jesus. He helped start a Christian School near his house that has grown to 3 locations just 20 years later. He served family and friends and strangers by using his “handy-man” and wood-working talents when he was needed. And he served his country during WWll in the Navy on submarines. Over and over again the characteristics of loving, tenderhearted, kind, soft-spoken were used to describe him. He left a legacy that will live on.
Shortly after my mom left this world, I realized that everyone, whether we like it or not, is living their legacy. What we do today will be what we will be remembered for when we’re gone. And with that, living my legacy became a passion . Not that I’m important, my influence is small compared to most people, limited to my family and a few friends. But I want to give all I can while I’m here. I value the times when I can pause and take stock in how I spend my time. For some reason, funerals give me that pause.
That’s where my head is today, thankful for my Dad-in-law and how he lived his legacy and once more evaluating what I’m doing to live my legacy one day at a time…
With love to you Peeps…I’m coming back tomorrow with a little of the other “stuff” I usually write about here…
{ 15 comments… read them below or add one }
Beautifully said!
My life falls so short in comparison.
I’ve missed a few days and I am so sorry that you lost your father in law. What a legacy he leaves, however, and so wonderful that you all have that to enjoy. Sounds like he was truly a godly man and such a blessing! Thanks for sharing.
And you are so right……..makes one think about what legacy we are living out each day.
Suzanne
suzanne´s last blog ..She still says it….
Such a beautiful tribute to your Father in law, and such a message for all of us to remember. Thanks. God Bless. Hugs, Marty
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I like the other “stuff” you do on here, but I LOVE it when you do this stuff!!:) You are awesome. And you have impacted little ole me who only met you once and yet I know I can turn to you for prayer and counsel b/c you shine, I know you go to Jesus first and you will be honest. Love you friend and thankful for your corner of the blogworld:) Take it easy these next few days. Let things ruminate:)
Erika Chapman´s last blog ..Wisdom Hunter
Robin-I have been reading your blog the past few weeks with my heart aching for you and your family. It’s finally time to write. I am so sorry for your loss. I also understand how you can have peace in the midst of it all. I lost my mom in September after a 3 1/2 month illness. She came to our home to live out her final days. I wouldn’t trade that time for anything. Certainly thinking of our own legacy is a way to adjust and make necessary changes in our lives. Please know you and your family are in my prayers.
Nan´s last blog ..
Oh, Robin, you have ministered to us with this post today! My prayers are with you and your family!
Blessings,
Shelia
Shelia´s last blog ..No Spooky At My House…
I would say your dear Father in love lived a life well spent.
Lisa´s last blog ..Save Money and Save Lives
Thank you for sharing with us, Robin. It sounds like your father-in-law lived quite a legacy of service to others. It is great to have someone remind us to think about our goals and why’s in life. Thank you for helping us see the big picture. I am thinking of Mike and praying for him and for all of your family.
Anita´s last blog ..A Writer’s Reference
Beautiful tribute. Saying prayers for the family.
sherri´s last blog ..The Messenger
I think you are far more important than perhaps you realize. I think you have touched far more people throughout your lifetime than you could possibly know, and now through blog world you reach even more! Thank you for your thoughtful words and for expressing a well rounded view of the circle of life. Keeping you in my prayers.
Vicky´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday
Robin, thank you reminding us to think about our own legacy and what we can do in this life to make it a life well spent. Thinking of you all, Pinky
Thanks for posting this Robin. I have been doing this throughout the last 3 months with the loss of my father-in-law as well as my mother. I look at what I am doing now and what my children will have to say when I am gone.
It sounds like your father-in-law led an amazing, full life and that is a blessing when it is time to say our goodbyes.
Once again, my condolences.
Lanie
Lanie´s last blog ..A great parable…
Good timing on this. I always find words here that resonate in my being.
Thank you,
C
Celesta´s last blog ..Old Farm Days
sweetheart, you have touched my heart and life in the short amount of time we’ve been friends… your legacy extends farther than you know… it extends to anyone who listens to your words and is touched by your spirit.
gitz´s last blog ..Blog Peep Questions: Goals
this was beautiful and thoughtful robin , and you are very important to those of us who have the honor of knowning and loving you , your friend ,ginger