Legacy and Love's Mark
Considering the things we leave behind once we're gone is heavy stuff. We're all at once confronted with the reality that our lives are ours to live, yes, but also that they affect more than just ourselves. Our lives have lasting effects on those we encounter. More than that - the way we love on those around us and the way we make them feel will outlast us long after we take our last breath on this side of heaven.
Maya Angelou once said, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I have to agree that this has been my experience as well. When I think about the significant relationships in my life, both past and present, the thing that lingers is love or the lack thereof. Perhaps it is why Christian scripture says of the things that are long-lasting, “ the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)
And great it is. Even in the pain.
It isn’t love that hurts us but the loss of it.
It isn’t love that breaks our hearts but the taking away of it.
These ideas inspired my latest pieces: "Love's Mark" & "The Exchange". They discuss and explore the concepts of what goes on as we encounter one another along life's journey and what we leave behind when it is all over.
In particular, Love's Mark is a bit more ambiguous in this regard because it can speak to the end of love as a result of death but also possibly as the result of the intentional ending of a relationship in general, with or without both parties consenting. In either case, the end can be painful but it can also provide cause for reflection on all the love exchanged while the love was still alive so to speak. Love always leaves it’s mark. In a lingering sentiment or memory. We are changed because of the exchange. Love’s mark is evident long after we’ve met and separated from it. What are some ways you’ve noticed its mark?
Enjoy this round’s pieces and as always I’d love to hear your thoughts! :)
