Developing Your Legacy: How Do You Want to be Remembered?

When we pass on, we are remembered by the imprint we have etched into the minds and hearts of others.

Our legacies are made up of a combination of successes, failures, contributions, life lessons, actions, and the many other ways we can leave a lasting impression. You are the architect of your life’s story so why not make it a great one?

Here are some considerations for developing a meaningful legacy that reflects who you are and how you live your life each day.

Family Contributions

Many people consider their most important life accomplishments be their contributions to family and home. It is indeed honorable to be the primary caregiver, a nurturing parent, or a staunch protector of those you love. If your contributions to your spouse, children and grandchildren, parents and grandparents, or other family members are a key part of how you wish to be remembered, detail what has motivated you and the ways you have accomplished your goals.

Generosity

Do you often give to those in need or assist others without expectation? If so, you will likely be remembered as a generous and kind person. And you don’t have to give money or other treasures to be charitable: giving of yourself is one of the greatest measures of generosity. When you make time for others and offer them your love and attention, it can be far more valuable than any amount of money. In the long term, what people will most remember about you is the way you treated them and how you added value to their lives.

Community Service

If you are committed to helping your community, it’s an important part of your legacy that affects so many others in positive ways. For example, if you were instrumental in building a community center, cleaned up the local park, or devoted time to feeding the homeless, note these activities in your end-of-life planning documents. It will enable your family members, friends, and neighbors to appreciate your efforts and contributions in the years to come.

Military Service

Members of the armed forces and military veterans leave lasting legacies on our nation’s freedom and security. If you are a current or previous member of the U.S. military, you can extend that legacy to future generations by documenting the most memorable events during your time of service. Heroic deeds and other acts of bravery are best told by those who experienced them, so put pen to paper, gather old photos and artifacts, and begin compiling your personal story of military service.

Business or Career

If you have worked hard to succeed in your vocation or put in endless hours to build your own business, you probably take tremendous pride in these professional accomplishments. Consider sharing details of your successes, what setbacks you encountered along the way, and any special words of wisdom to help those who want to follow in your footsteps.

When developing your legacy, take stock of all the things in your life that make it uniquely yours. Curate a lifetime of memories and family stories that reflect your personal motivations and accomplishments so others can continue to appreciate your special qualities for many years to come.

Are you seeking to define your legacy or honor the legacy of a loved one? Our compassionate funeral directors are always ready and available to assist you. Please reach out to us anytime.

About Vaughn Greene Funeral Services: For more than 20 years, Vaughn Greene Funeral Services has been providing a ministry of care to Baltimore’s African American community. As a leading local, minority- and family-owned provider, we promise to provide our highest level of service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved ones. For more information, please call us at 410.655.0015 or visit us online at https://vaughncgreene.com/.