“A good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children…” – Proverbs 13:22
Webster’s dictionary describes legacy as a gift by will especially of money or other personal property; something received from an ancestor or predecessor. I believe legacy means leaving behind an inheritance for future generations. This inheritance doesn’t just mean money or wealth. But, it also represents leaving behind a strong spiritual foundation, a creed of faith and values, cultural heritage, social responsibility, intellectual heritage, family keepsakes and memorabilia.
We all know of high-profile families who are known for the great contributions they have made to society. For instance, the Kennedys are known as a political family who firmly believe in public service. The legacy of their forefathers and foremothers has led many family generations to pursue politics and/or public service as a career. From their work, they leave behind a presidency, the international service organization, the Peace Corps and the Special Olympics. Another example would be the King family. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his wife Coretta Scott King fought for civil rights and made daring strides to provide equal opportunity for African-Americans. They left behind a legacy which opened doors for many African-American men and women to pursue opportunities in which they were once banned. The Kings’ children are continuing their parent’s work through the King Center and the national memorial of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the nation’s capital of DC.
Each of us has a choice in how we will be remembered and the type impact we want to make in this world. It is the seeds we sow today in our lives as individuals, in our families and communities which will dictate the course of generations which will come after us. Future generations will look to us and our deeds as a map to follow. Are we setting a positive example of what it means to live a life of exceptional leadership?
In part two of this post, I will give you a few simple ways we can all begin to build a legacy in our families. For now, I want you to ponder about what you want you and your family to be remembered for?
Eunice Cofie, @nuekie, is a member of our thegenerationaleffect.com Board of Directors and is the President and Chief Cosmetic Chemist of Nuekie, an ethnic dermatology company. She is an expert in cosmetic science, entrepreneurship, personal and professional development, and leadership.
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