Legacy

I want to leave a legacy. Yesterday I turned in a Developmental Autobiography for the completion of my Human Growth and Development class. It was the developmental story of my life, from my parents pre-conception planning, to my death. Writing about what I hope the next 45 years of my life will involve, was an exciting and enlightening task.

Here are the last couple of paragraphs. Please allow me some idealism...

"Solomon and I have no idea what will bring the end of our lives, but in our mid 70s, we feel we have already had the best life possible and would not change a thing. Our love and commitment to God, and to each other, has never wavered for more than a minute, even in the most trying of circumstances. We attribute our faith in God as the strength and hope that shaped such a wonderful life together. We have shared common goals and visions throughout our marriage. A good death comes at the end of a life that is lived, not for ones self, but for others.
If we were to die today, we have no regrets and trust that our legacy will carry on for generations.

Headline for the Blantyre Standard, Sunday, May 9th, 2051.
“Missionary couple lost life in storm.”
“A small chartered plane went down during the early on-set of the Malawian rainy season yesterday morning, killing the elderly missionary couple on board. Solomon and Sheila Alont were flying to their connection at Lilongwe, after visiting friends at Grace Farm in the village of Namwera. They issued a mayday call at 0612 hours, but soon lost radio contact. They had lived in the Namwera district for 18 years in the 2030s-40s, running a clinic there and providing mobile medical care in the surrounding villages. They made it their goal in life to provide medical care, clean water and vocational training, all in the name of God. They continued their mission work from their home in Trinidad and Tobago for the last 15 years. They are survived by their two children and seven grandchildren. A memorial fund has been set up in the Alont name for funding a hospital in the village of Namwera.”

Dream and plan, think and talk about all the great things you intend to do. Then follow through, and truly experience the best you can imagine. --Ralph Marston