This reflection was prompted by the recent death of my sister, who continues to be uppermost in my mind and heart. As I continue to grieve, I also meditate on the life that she lived, who she was for us and for other people. Several times during her wake people highlighted her enthusiasm in organizing the annual December Christmas Fun in Kulaman with our Dulangan Manobo friends in Delesan Kailawan. It was a gift-giving activity with family and friends. That was her legacy.
Throughout the year, she would sell some products she had acquired, and set aside her “profit” to this annual outreach. People patronized her products because of the beneficiaries, and also because my sister was well-loved by the community. They could not say no to her! Her friends and family supported her and contributed to the outreach annually.
In honor of her, I created a Facebook Page named, MS Legacy Community Charity Shop. MS, her initials, for Maria Suzette. It was a way to hold her memory for us and for her friends, as a memorial of her legacy.
Which leads to the question: “What legacy am I leaving behind?” This is an essential question that I believe deserves careful consideration. It is also my ongoing question. How will I be remembered when I am no longer around?
The legacy that any of us leaves behind is shaped by the choices and actions that each of us takes. I can choose to live a purposeful and meaningful life focused on helping others, pursuing my passions, and making the world a better place. Or I can do the opposite. Ultimately, the legacy that I leave behind is a reflection of the life that I have lived and the impact I had on the people around me.
My sister did not have a big charitable organization that she ran, but simply an annual gift-giving activity. She was remembered for it because of her dedication, commitment and enthusiasm. She did not concern herself about the legacy that she’d be leaving behind, but simply pursued something that kept her engaged all-year through. And it seems to me, that is her legacy.
Sr Patricia Lourdes “Petite” Lao, RNDM is a religious missionary of the Congregation of Our Lady of the Missions. She is currently a doctoral candidate of the Toronto School of Theology (Regis College) with a research interest in Indigenous-visible minority dialogue and the truth and reconciliation process.
The death of someone I love, and/or am inspired by, can open me to deeper thoughts about the meaning of life. As Suzette’s death has done for you. Thank you for sharing something of her enduring legacy.
I also note that the virtual shop you opened in her memory, MS Legacy Community Charity Shop is a live link in your article.