What’s your Legacy?

A living legend has passed and yesterday millions if not billions had the honor of watching his memorial service. No matter what our personal opinions might be about Michael Jackson, one thing is absolutely clear…This man had impact and has left a tangible and intangible mark on the world and the hearts of many.

Last night I watched some of the  service and was deeply moved. Martin Luther King Jr.’s children’s words touched me the most. Some of the key phrases they shared were:

“Be the best of what you are.”

“You have to look with the heart–what’s most important is invisible.”

“Go and let your light shine.”

Michael Jackson was a powerful role model of living these statements in his daily life. He walked the talk as he donated 20% of his money to charitable causes, invested in the lives of his children, family, friends and fans, and shared his heart and soul through the music he now leaves behind.

These statements penetrated my heart in a very deep place. I felt the stirring within as I reconnected to the deeper truth that my mission in this world is to help others reclaim their truest selves so they can leave a lasting legacy.

It’s moments like these that I feel compelled to remind you that there is a bigger agenda than your daily to-do list. You have a greater purpose and life mission that will benefit and impact others in your own unique way. When you live from this place of authenticity you begin to live out your legacy right now, here on earth, transforming others with the gift that only you can bring.

Life is much richer from this place because your heart is fully engaged. Oh, how much I want this for you because not only do you deserve it, but others need what you have to offer. This is where “real” living exists and you begin to thrive while living your abundant life here on earth. Even more than it being about you, this is the place where you have the greatest ability to serve and favorably influence those in your families, your community, your workplace and the world.

So how do you determine your legacy? The first step is to make a conscious, committed decision to invest in your personal growth and development. This starts by saying “yes” to your heart and scheduling time to explore what’s within.

Then start writing. What do you want to be remembered for? What’s the impact you wish to have on the lives of others? What will your friends, family members, and colleagues be sharing about you at your memorial service?

From here, you need to take a look at who you need to “be” and what you need to “do” so you can live your legacy now. What qualities and characteristics do you want others to see in you? Will you be overwhelmed and distracted or be connected and present? Will you put work first or schedule time with yourself to get centered before you start your day?

Take a look at your legacy and ask yourself, “Is the way I live my life right now in alignment with who I wish to be and the impact I want to have at the end of my life?” If not, it’s time to make some changes.

The world needs you…Go and let your light shine!

P.S. If you’d like to watch the entire Michael Jackson Memorial Service you can Click Here. I highly recommend that you scroll to 114 minutes and watch until 118 minutes to hear the amazing thoughts shared by Martin Luther King Jr.’s children.