For several years I’ve given a presentation entitled “What Difference Can I Make.” It seems to resonant particularly with people who don’t have significant job titles. We can all make a difference.
Over the years, I’ve come in contact with many people who limit their perspective to their work life. This limitation diminishes the scope of the difference they may be making in the world. Below are examples of people I know who have made a difference.
A Relative
My kid brother lost his wife just over a year ago. She was way too young to leave this world. I’ve reflected upon her passing throughout the past year. Her gifts and talents are revealed throughout our home. She was extremely creative and patiently shared her knowledge with others. Her legacy lives on in the art and crafts she created, but even more in the people who learned from her tutoring.
A Friend
One of my dearest friends lost his son last month. He was way too young to leave this world. No parent should have to attend the funeral of their offspring. His son (my friend’s grandson) delivered a touching eulogy. He said his dad did all he could to shield the family from his illness. He shared that his dad told him death happens all the time, but it just feels different when it happens to someone you know. It was so obvious to me my dear friend had raised a magnificent son who had in turn brought up a wonderful son. Both grandfather and father had left a legacy that will live on for generations. What more can you ask out of a person?
A Professional
Earlier this week, I learned of a grade school chum who passed away. Once more he was way too young to leave this world. He had developed a very successful practice as a dentist and oral surgeon. But twice a year he unselfishly would leave his practice to provide medical services in Haiti. It was his passion. And in addition to the countless lives he helped and changed over the last 35+ years, his mission work will also be his legacy.
A President
The word “Legacy” has been used hundreds of times on TV this week while describing the life of George H.W. Bush. There is no doubt he left an indelible difference in many lives. One person shared “he changed my life.” Another said, “without him there would be no me.” Every testament reflecting the legacy of a world leader and a distinguished citizen. But more importantly, the legacy of a husband, father, and grandfather who left a legacy and made a difference of enormous proportions.
Four people, four legacies. All four monumental in the eyes of those the person touched. As we head full force through Hanukkah and into the Christmas season it’s a good time to reflect on the gift of a legacy we may be leaving. We all can and do make a difference. And we can create our legacy a day and deed at a time. Be about it and live it.
Until next time…