One of the things about life that is inevitable is death. However, when death happens, we still ask why questions. Why this person? Why now? Why couldn’t they have lived longer? Why them not me? Why this way? Why? Why? Why?
As I sat through yet another Celebration of Life, I realized how many “whys” I was asking. Then it dawned on me — someday I’m going to be on the other side of this equation, and I started asking different questions.
What is the purpose of my life? How will I be remembered? What impact will I have made on the world?
During this Celebration of Life, people told stories about the challenges that the deceased faced. However, the stories didn’t stop with the problems. They included inspiration and hope imparted to others through the struggles and victories. The wisdom and insight that comes from the tragedies in life can’t be discounted. Often those moments that seem the darkest are when our character is formed and where we have our greatest impact.
In meeting with a group of fellow memoirists I experience that same reality: each person’s story is important. Some of the stories are light and fun, others are dark and full of sadness; but the common thread is they all have an impact. They impart the wisdom learned through life’s ups and downs and cause us to look at the world differently.
For me, the lesson I learned through this Celebration of Life is to stop asking the why questions and start asking myself questions about legacy. What amazing thing did this person leave behind that changes the lives of others? What will my legacy be? I feel myself being challenged to turn the difficult moments in life into blessings for those around me. I want to wallow in the moments where I am surprised by love, goodness, and beauty – holding onto the joy and laughter that they bring so that I can give it away to others. I want to have the kind of impact that changes lives for the better.
My friend’s life was tragedy after tragedy, but his legacy for us is a challenge to hope in the middle of tragedy and to enjoy the little things. Everyone at the Celebration walked away knowing that: “No matter how messed up your life seems to be — you have an impact.” What is your legacy impact?
