It’s funny how a particular song gets stuck in your head. It gets set on “Re-play”, and it won’t shut off. Lately that song in my head has been “On and On.” It was released in May 1977 by Stephen Bishop. If you’ve heard the song, you’ll understand why some days just feel like those lyrics.
I remember, as a child, when someone I knew died. It’s funny that I can’t remember exactly who it was. I think it was my grandfather. I do remember being driven somewhere in my mother’s car and hearing music playing on the car radio. I distinctly remember thinking, “How can they keep playing the same old songs on the radio? Don’t they know my grandfather has died? How can the world keep going like nothing has happened? Why doesn’t everything stop when someone I loved has died?”
Lately, it seems like death has been all too present. A dear neighbor, a co-worker of my husband, and the parent of a friend have all died. Their lives have ended, and their families are left shattered. But life goes on. There are still tasks to be done, bills to be paid, dogs to be walked, and so on. Life goes on, even when it feels like everything should stop. Jobs end, relationships implode, homes are destroyed by hurricanes, but life goes on.
Not one of us will get out of this life alive. That’s just how it is. A friend recently posted on social media a link to the Tim McGraw song, “Live Like You Were Dying.” As I thought about the words to that song it reminded me that, yes, we’re all dying so how does that affect how we LIVE?
I’ve heard people talk about leaving a legacy. Maybe that’s a topic for another blog post, but I’ll share a few of my thoughts. “Legacy” can mean a gift of money or personal property. It can also refer to something outdated and no longer useful. My legacy won’t be millions of dollars (sorry about that, heirs), and hopefully I’m not (too) outdated and no longer useful. What if I want my legacy to be the way I’m remembered? How can I live today in a way that will shape the legacy I leave?
We all leave something when we die. Sometimes it’s just a lot of “stuff” that someone else must sort through. Sometimes it is something of value that those left behind will fight over. But what if my legacy was letting people know they were loved? What if they remember how I made them laugh? What if I lived the words to the old hymn, “Make Me a Blessing.” The last line of the refrain is, “Make me a blessing to someone today.” I’d be content with that.
I know that just as with everyone else who has died before me, life will go on when I die. Celebrations will be had, new memories will be made, jokes will be told, and yes, tears will be shed. That’s OK. I don’t know (and none of us knows) how many days or years I have left to live, but I want today to matter. I still don’t have my expiration date stamped on my forehead, so I’m going to assume I have a few good years left. Hmmm… Maybe I should have purchased the extended car warranty I was offered, after all.
Carol
Cancer has progressed to my bones. I pray that it never enters my soul.
Carol, you continue to inspire…and sending you much love, continued prayers and please know how much you are loved and admired by so many people. Wishing you and Marty a wonderful holiday season. Miss you both!
Carol, you have always been a thoughtful and kind friend which I believe always makes you a blessing. More blessings to you. Didi
Thank you, Didi! I’m thankful to call you a friend!
What about the extended warranties for your appliances? Seriously, know that your friends and family love you dearly, and wish there were no expiration dates for anyone. Thank you for reminding us about that hymn.
Thank you, Diana! I’ve never been one for extended warranties. Maybe I should re-think that! 🙂
Yes, I forget. Thanks for the reminder, Carol, of what’s really important. Investing in people. “I want today to matter”.
Thank you for reminding me that what I do everyday matters to those who will be left behind when I die. We all have a purpose and maybe my only purpose today is to be a blessing to someone. Chris
Thank you, Chris! Sometimes we need those reminders – at least I know that I do.
We may not fully know the extent of our legacy in this life. Let me just say that yours is amazing.
Thank you, Tammy! Your words mean so much to me!
Your thoughts always mean so much to me, Carol. Kindness. Laughter. That’s what I experience when I’m with you. The time I spent with you at Sara and Eric’s wedding was filled with laughter and kindness. Sending you a big hug!
Thank you, Linda! That was so much fun to see you and catch up with you at their wedding.
Take care. Praying!
Thank you, Sandy. Prayers are always appreciated!
Thanks Carol for another touching tribute to your journey with cancer. They’re always an inspiration to me and I’m sure all of the lucky pole who read your blog. My fav line in this one is “Make me a blessing to someone today.” That’s always been my gosh but not I have a new mantra to inspire me when I lose focus.
I hope you, Marty and your fam have a fab holiday. Will you be hosting your Christmas party this year?
Hugs,
Joe
Thank you, Joe. We won’t be hosting this year. We miss it, but it was so lovely last year to have another neighbor host it.