Death can do strange things to many. Dealing with loss can be challenging and its effects can usually go one of two ways; for some, death can bring depression, recession, and even obsession. But for others, the grieving process can mean rising up to the challenge of being better– a better husband, better wife, better parent, better member of society, or better human being. I am not saying that you need to be immune to the feeling of woe, because the grieving process is often necessary in a time of loss. Parting with a loved one doesn’t always have to be sealed with sorrow and despair; death can end in a new life and a new light for all to see.
Recently, one of my high school friends passed away at the age of 28, and it really got me thinking. First, I thought, “Wow, he was so young with so much ahead of him!” Twenty eight years is hardly enough time to experience and accomplish all of the things someone would hope to, right? Shortly after leaving the funeral service, I knew that I was wrong.
It doesn’t matter how much time we spend on this rock, but more of what we do with our time given. That high school friend had achieved many things and touched many lives in his short life that it amounted to far more than 28 years. He had the ultimate gift of gab and you could tell by simply having a conversation with him that he wished the best for you and wanted you to be the best version of you. He challenged you to be better. Sitting in the service and hearing memories about him got me thinking about my life. Of course, my journey and purpose would look different from his, but what was it? He had such an impact on all who encountered him. What would people say about me when my time was up? Have I been living a life worth remembering? Maya Angelou said that “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I wanted to have that impact.
Think about where you are in life, how you can get the most out of your life, and what mark you will leave here. Don’t wait for tragic events to change your course or reasons; start making an impression today. I have compiled a list of questions that will help you find your legacy:
- What’s your passion?
- How can you put these passions into actions?
- How can you integrate your passion into all aspects of your life?
- What makes a person memorable?
- What types of characteristics do you hold that you want others to remember about you when your time is up?
- How can you highlight these characteristics?
- What will your legacy be?
- How will you make a mark on those that you encounter?
- How will you live your life with meaning and purpose?
- Who can help me make this life?
What’s the plan for my legacy? Well, it starts with inspiring others. Hopefully I can encourage others the way my friend could so easily. I challenge you to know yourself, be bold to follow your true passion even when the world seems to be against you, color outside the lines, ask questions, and make your mark on this world. Time is ticking and your clock doesn’t reveal its face or hands. The longer you wait for the future, the shorter it will be.
How will I put my plan into action? I will follow my passions by enjoying life to the last drop and leaving my impression. I want to be remembered as educated, brave, eloquent, and giving – just like my friend who has passed. These traits can manifest through my love of painting, reading, being informed on current issues, standing up for what is right, writing (first time blogger, but I would love to continue) and volunteering my time. I have set many goals for myself for 2016 to highlight all of these areas. Currently, I am working on serving the community – I set a goal to volunteer for ten different organizations this year and have already gotten a head start on two! Feel free to message me to join me on the opportunities to come! J
Now, more importantly…What will your legacy be?
Janae Shillito started with Aureus Medical Group in June 2015 as a recruiter for the Advanced Practice Division where she recruited Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants. She now works with students, guiding them on their transitional journey from school to the workplace as a Student Outreach Coordinator for the Rehab Therapy division. When Janae isn’t traveling and visiting college campuses all over the country, she is usually found reading a good book, kickboxing, or hanging out with friends and family, especially her husband, Cory, and favorite Rottweiler, Hank.