“Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.”
—Shannon L. Alder
Since learning of the sudden passing of my brother-in-law earlier this week, I’ve been thinking about what it means to leave a legacy.
Joe was an elementary school principal, and according to this article on KSTP.com, those who worked alongside him said: “He wanted to leave a legacy of learning and working with others.”
He did that and so much more. Based on the countless stories people have shared about him on Facebook, it is clear he left a legacy not only at work and in his community but also with his family and friends. I was lucky to know him and I’ll never forget his sense of humor, generosity and humility.
The important thing about leaving a legacy is the impact it has on those you leave behind. I’ve learned from Joe’s example, and a piece of him will live on in me as I try to incorporate his best qualities into my both my daily life and my legacy.
Rest in peace, Joe. Thank you for sharing your best self with us. The world is a better place because you were in it.
Please take a couple of minutes to watch this touching news story about Joe and the impact of his loss.
| I shot the photo of Joe and his kids a few years ago, incorporating two photos into one through the magic of Photoshop. |