Del Rosario: Heritage and legacy

WHEN someone dies, we inevitably talk about inheritance, what is left behind for his heirs.

When one very rich taipan recently died, many were curious to find out how much he had left behind. Apparently, it seems, they had long prepared for his ultimate demise, as data inherited by the children were soon published by Fortune magazine.

Actually, to the question, “how much did he leave behind?” the philosophical and truthful answer is: “EVERYTHING!”

Inheritance is tangible. It consists of the assets that can be counted and collected.

What else did he leave behind? A heritage! It is intangible. It takes the form of qualities and values that are reflected in the character of those who came before us.

In the words of Bruce and Stan, authors of the Book, “God is in the Small Stuff for your Family: A family’s heritage provides a sense of stability and tranquility. It can foster a moral and charitable spirit that can discern how to share an inheritance with those less fortunate; and can reinforce a sense of priorities that gives meaning to life.”

One can work a lifetime to accumulate an inheritance for one’s children, but all can be lost thru financial reversals, economic downturns, poor judgment, mishandling of resources, or simply, squandered away. There is no guarantee an inheritance will be put to good use. It may even be the cause of squabbles among the family members.

An inheritance can improve the conveniences of life, but a heritage can improve the character and quality of life.

A heritage is what we learn about from those who came before us; and our legacy is how we impact those who come after us.

My dearest Michael, family members, and friends,

We have to die to leave an inheritance, but we can add to the family’s heritage each day we live. An inheritance is usually divided in various ways, but the benefits of a heritage is received by each one in full!

We will all leave some things to our descendants.

Pity our children if we leave just an inheritance instead of a rich heritage.

It is the way we live and the way we influence our family that matter a lot. May it be more enduring than the tangible GIFTS we leave behind.

Let us all strive to include a good name, a good reputation, among our GIFTS to them.

May we GIFT them with a rich heritage of personal qualities like spirituality, strong faith in God, love, joy, compassion, patience, peace, kindness, integrity, and a good sense of humor.

May we leave behind a legacy of LOVE for God and for others, especially for those who are hard to love.

In the words of Bruce and Stan:

“Live your life so that when you die, people will know that you: loved others clearly; loved your family dearly; and loved God completely.”

May our children be able to say what is written in Psalm 61:5 “For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.”

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