I have spent a long time thinking about my legacy. Having children later in life, made me consider this. Beyond money, policies and property. What will I leave behind? What will people remember about me?
My husband and I, have been investigating Wills, Lifetime ISAs, Stocks and Shares accounts and pensions for months. Putting things in place for the future. Money doesn’t buy happiness but it can make life easier. After signatures grace the agreements and contributions are in place, what then? Nothing like a Will to make you aware of your own mortality.
What about your legacy?
I want my daughter to be proud of me. Part of why I write this blog, is to leave her with a piece of me. I will be in my late 50s when she embarks on her 20s. I hope I am still alive and kicking but in case life has other plans, she will have my words and a piece of my heart. I want to be remembered, for being a good person. Kind and generous with my time and attention. For making people smile and laugh. For being a good wife, mother and friend.
I guess it’s impossible to know what my legacy will be. You never really know what you mean to people. People never truly know, how much you mean to them, until you’re gone. I would like to think, that I still have time, to do something amazing. I wonder if everyone feels like they were meant to do something great. I have always felt that I was.
‘Your legacy is every life you’ve touched’ – Maya Angelou
I was watching my daughter play today. We were laughing and enjoying the sunshine. There is nothing quite as beautiful, as the sound of a young child laughing. Most days, I struggle to take my eyes off her beautiful face. I am so proud of her. In that moment, sat in our garden, I heard that question again.
What about your legacy?
My answer was immediate – I am looking at her. My beautiful daughter, you are the very best of me. I pray you have my strength and passion, without the fear and anxiety. I hope you are always in good health, without long-term mental and physical struggles. I hope your life is full of love and that you laugh just like you do today. You brighten my day, my night, my world. You are my legacy.
Shine bright my baby Angel. I love you.