How many times have you heard of someone’s passing then spent time reflecting on their life? Does it generate thoughts about yourself and cause you wonder what people will say when your time comes?
I’m not sure if it’s because of my age or what, but in recent years, I’ve noticed an increase in my attendance at funerals. Not only have I been attending more, I seem to be more involved with making plans and handling arrangements with friends and family.
In my youth, the idea of being around death “creeped me out!” As I’ve gotten older (or maybe more mature), it’s not as bad. I realize it is part of life and there’s no way to avoid it. It’s not something I like to do, but I’m not afraid of death anymore.
Last week I went to the funeral of a long-time family friend who had recently been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. While his death was not completely unexpected, no one was prepared to say goodbye. He was a great loss to many.
Before the service began, I learned about a letter that was written in preparation of his death. It was addressed to his wife and expressed his love for her and the life they shared. What a beautiful gift!
Looking around the church, I noticed there were a lot of people, almost all with tears in their eyes. As I sat there, I thought about the sadness held by each person and the common loss we all shared. Then my thoughts shifted to the different people who filled the room. They were young and old; rich and poor; different backgrounds and cultures; and people from all walks of life. It was very humbling to think about the many lives touched by this one person.
When the priest spoke of our friend’s life, he reflected on things that were known by all; how much he loved his family, the service to his country, funny stories involving friends, and how he opened his house to anyone in need of a home. His eulogy also included stories that many were unaware of, but not surprised. For example, for years he provided meals to those in need. He made daily trips to food establishments to collect day-old products then delivered them to migrant workers. It was not something he spoke of, nor was it glamorous, but it mattered to him and most of all, it made a difference in the lives of the workers.
Although I was aware of how he lived his life, it all came together as I listened to the stories and connected them with the people around me. What a comfort to those grieving to witness all who came to show their respect for a man who was generous with his life and his time. A legacy for his loved ones to be proud.
For several days, I have spent time reflecting on my own life, wondering if I have a legacy or what changes I can do to make a difference. For every day that I wake up, it’s another chance to make improvements.
I once read a bumper sticker that said, “It’s not about what you accumulate during your life that matters; it’s what you leave behind.” What are you leaving behind?
Our story: Once there were 4 guys stationed togather in the US Air Force , we became friends for life.Our families grew up togather. We flew missions togather over the years to most places in the world.The stories we told for all to listen about our trips where only worth telling if it ended by one of us being the fool of something that happened. These stories always got better over the yrs after retirement. We just enjoyed each other soo much , I,m sure they where only funny to us.
It all started some fifty yrs. ago and now where down to one.
We,ve all had many friends over the yrs, in my case (80) yrs. but if your lucky you'll have several that are really special. Iv'e been very lucky with special friends. I recently had a health check up the Doc said my lab work came out excellant . ( the pills worked) He also wanted to know how things in my where going , I told him pretty good but I told him about my friends and out of the four I,m the only one left and when I think about it a few tears start coming. I think it set him back a bit ,he thought a little bit about that and then told me God must have more planned for me to do.I just hope I can fulfil his plans
I recently attended a funeral of a family friend. She had been dealing with cancer since 2005.
At her funeral, the pastor called her a prophet and, I believe it. I saw her, even has she was in hospice, giving spiritual counseling to those who were visiting her.
I want that type of legacy - that my purpose in life was to bring people to Jesus - so that we can spend eternity together. I'm not so sure this will happen for me, as I'm not very good at it.
So in that case, maybe my legacy is to be an example by being a good employee at work, by helping others in the community, etc. Not that I believe that you get into Heaven by works - because I don't. But I do believe that, once you give your heart to the Lord, you can't help but want to help others.
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