Yesterday I attended the funeral of a dear family friend. During the eulogy, the pastor recounted asking the widow what was the one word she would use in describing her late husband. She said, “Gentle.” Giving an example, she mentioned that never in their 54 years of marriage did she ever have to fill her own gas tank.
Interestingly, Jesus described himself as gentle. In Matthew 11: 28-30, he said, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (ESV)
I have lived almost six decades and met thousands and thousands of grown men. Never had I heard of one described as “gentle.” If you want to be like Jesus, one of the qualities you must have is gentleness.
What a legacy and honoring his life has challenged me to be a better man.
Having a word for the year has become a popular leadership exercise. I get it. Have a word for the year helps with focus, intentionality, and the setting of priorities. It also provides guardrails and helps you know what to say “No” to.
But I was reminded yesterday that when our leadership, and for that matter, our life are over, people will not remember us for our ever-changing word for each year. They will attach a single word to the span of our entire life.
I encourage you today to give thought to your legacy and the impact you want your life here on Earth to have. What one word would you want people to say when describing you? Start living that way now.
For the record, the word I hope people say about me is “Kind.” I still have a long way to go. Time to get back to work.
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