Legacy - A Tribute to my Grandfather

I had to get this blog going before the month of Dec ended...

As I have been reflecting on turning 30 and getting old, in addition to the recent passing of my grandfather, I have been thinking a lot about leaving a legacy. My grandfather's life was a testimony that a life of service to God, others, and his country is the most fulfilling life anyone can hope for.

Here's the song Legacy from Nichole Nordeman that has inspired and challenged me in the past few months, particularly in the past few days since my grandfather passed away...

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy an accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all the who's who's and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such'n'such ... it wouldn't matter much

I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an 'Atta boy' or 'Atta girl'
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
The temporary trappings of this world

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to You enough To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

I don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthy list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trinket and a treasure pile
Where moth and rust, thieves and such will soon enough destroy

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well Done" good and faithful one...

Thanks Grandpa for leaving a tremendous legacy. You are dearly missed. I can only hope to leave such an immense legacy when it's my time to go. I'm sure it's better you spent Christmas with Jesus rather than with us. Believe it or not, Grandma got yet more jewelry as gifts. If you had been with us, I 'm sure you would have encouraged her to open up her own jewelry store, like you always did! :)