Legacy

We all do our best as mothers; we raise our children the best way we know how. We make sure we create lasting memories. We teach them right from wrong, and we are there to guide them in life. Of course, we hope they will remember everything we’ve done someday, but what exactly do we want them to remember? Is there something specific?

Last year, my mother-in-law passed away. She was a wonderful woman. I had the privilege of receiving her kindness, generosity, and love for 20 years. I knew she was a sweet woman who had a big heart. She was someone who everyone knew had a servant’s heart. She did not mind helping those who were in need. However, I knew these things about her; not until I heard the testimonies about her during her memorial service did it hit me hard.

My husband talked about her mother’s legacy and her extravagant love.
Karen was an extraordinary woman with an incredible love to share. She demonstrated this love through her dedication to her husband, children, grandchildren, friends, and community members. In addition, my mother-in-law had a servant’s attitude. She gave her time to help and serve people around her. She never asked anything in return; she gave and served.

She did not only leave lasting memories for her children; she left a legacy that is to be passed on to the next generation. It was a turning point for me and a moment of reflection. I realized that on top of my obligation as a mother, I needed to develop a legacy. I needed to create memories for my children and a legacy they could pass on to the next generations.

My husband saw the incredible value his mother possessed and made sure he conveyed it to our children. His testament about his mother’s legacy made me re-evaluate my ways. What kind of legacy am I leaving my children? Is it one that they can also testify on when I’m gone? Is it something they can pass on to their children?

Hearing my husband’s eulogy made me understand the importance of passing on a legacy to the next generation in our family. He and others witnessed his mother’s extravagant love and willingness to give and serve without hesitation. I want my children to see the same thing in me now. I want them to see something valuable in me that is worth passing on to our future generations.