Leaving a legacy

We all try to make a mark on the life that is given us. Whether it be a learned skill or business prowess, each one is intent on being better than the generation before us and leaving an indelible impact on society. Many hours are expended, well into adulthood, as we forge ahead to create a path (and perhaps an income to match).

Today, the nation has stopped in horror at hearing of eight prisoners who won't get that chance. Sure, they made bad choices (who hasn't?) but at the end of the day, their lives have been taken far too early and in many eyes, unjustified for the choices they made. Labelled as common prisoners, these men have left this earth without the chance the make their mark.

Or have they?

The Sydney Morning Herald posted an article today on the Bali executions. I have been digging my head in the sand over this whole issue. Whether it be because it's so dreadfully terrifying that people can so willingly take another life, or that the sensation it's caused has inadvertently overshadowed a greater tragedy in Nepal, as far as lives lost. Either way, I have been trying to avoid the articles but with the innumerable accounts in various media, it has been almost impossible.

Today's headline 'Eight prisoners refused blindfolds' caught my attention. I was expecting furore, or political outrage, but the perspective of this article was intriguing. I read it and was humbled by the account I was reading. Refused blindfolds. They faced their killers. Not only that, but sang 'Amazing Grace' until their last moments, choosing to show no fear. How is that even humanly possible?

What struck me today about the Bali prisoners was the legacy they left.

Taken way too soon, these young men left this world, making a statement within the situation they were given, that most of us spend a lifetime trying to attain. They didn't design the latest contraption, or write a best-selling novel. They chose to face their consequences and their fears, sought reconciliation with God and sang their way to the end, with courage.

Not all of us will have the chance to do amazing things with our lives. Amazing things, that is, by worldly standards. However, each one of us has the option of being able to leave a legacy where we are, within the constraints we have been given. Whether we are in a wheelchair, or a working mum or a single dad, we can make an indelible mark right here.

Each one of you is a gift to this world, and the world is waiting for you to make an impact. What will be your legacy?