By Rev Gichinga
A legacy-the lasting impact that we leave behind.
Lessons:
- Legacy is far more than the accolades we earn or the words we speak—it is defined by the feelings we evoke in others and the impact our daily interactions leave behind. As Maya Angelou wisely stated, “I have learnt that people will forget what you said, what you did but they never will forget what you made them feel.” This simple truth reminds us that the measure of our lives is seen through the lens of those we touch.
- Credibility and genuineness are the foundations upon which a noble life is built. When we mentor others or influence those around us, it is not enough to simply impart wisdom; our own lives must resonate with integrity and authenticity. If our lives are not nobly lived, any guidance we offer risks being hollow, lacking the true power of example. Every action and every interaction carry with it a ripple effect—empowering some, disempowering others, affirming some, leaving others feeling invisible. These outcomes shape our legacy in ways both seen and unseen.
- Our legacy is often an unintended byproduct of who we are. The way we live, the choices we make, and the character we nurture determine the fragrance we leave behind. In the Bible, 2 Corinthians 2:15-17 reminds us that we are “the aroma of Christ,” suggesting that our spiritual formation should permeate every aspect of our lives. It is a call to consistently align our actions with a higher purpose, to become living testaments of compassion, righteousness, and humility.
- Reflecting on the lives of biblical figures such as David, Caleb, and Joshua provide us with tangible examples of both the pitfalls and the triumphs of human experience. David’s lament in Psalm 51 reveals the profound pain of misusing the power bestowed upon him. His recognition that his sin was not just against the people or institutions around him, but against God, underscores the importance of accountability and the sanctity of our actions. In contrast, Caleb and Joshua, who were chosen as the vanguard in their journey of faith, exemplify the virtues of resilience, trust, and a spirit that endures through the passage of time. Caleb’s testament to living nobly, even at 85, shows that legacy is built gradually and intentionally over a lifetime.
- To leave behind a good legacy, one must engage in continuous spiritual formation—nurturing a life that not only seeks truth and righteousness but also radiates warmth and care in every encounter. The time spent in reflection, study, and companionship with those who uplift us plays an essential role in shaping our character and, ultimately, our legacy. It is a reminder that our lives are not isolated moments but a series of interconnected experiences that cumulatively define how history will remember us.
- In the end, a nobly lived life is one that is consistently formed by deliberate, spiritual choices, mindful interactions, and the sincere desire to make others feel seen, valued, and loved. This is the enduring impact we leave behind—a legacy that, long after our words and deeds are forgotten, remains imprinted in the hearts of those we have touched.