Our Rural Roots

Tiffany Dowell Lashmet, Contributor

A friend recently passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. There was understandably an outpouring of grief. But, what came next has forever changed me.

During the service, stories poured forth about what a good person and good friend this man was. People shared encouraging voice memos he had sent. Others shared screenshots of uplifting text messages.

The legacy that he left was one of kindness, friendship and positivity.

It got me thinking about the way we live our lives and how that translates into something meaningful. How we live today, the very basic, everyday moments of life are the building blocks that make up our legacies.

When someone we love dies, rarely do we talk about the awards they won or the titles they garnered or how much money they made. Instead, what people share are stories of seemingly small, usually unseen acts that truly matter. The way they always called to wish someone a happy birthday. How they shoveled the snow from their neighbor's driveway. The special interest they took in a child and helped them at the county fair. The fact they always made the best potato casserole in the county for the church potluck.

Spring is all about new beginnings, and my friend's legacy of doing for others has taken root in me. I want to focus more on the daily actions and make those part of my own legacy. I've started writing notes to people who are important to me on a more regular basis. I've made it a point to text friends when I think of them or take time to share a funny memory when it comes to mind. I've tried hard to think twice before I say something negative or lodge a complaint.

Instead of just living through the day, it is time to intentionally live my legacy.

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Tiffany Dowell Lashmet balances family, farming and a career in ag law from the Texas Panhandle. Follow her blog at https://alwaysafarmkid.com/…, on Instagram @alwaysafarmkid and Twitter @TiffDowell

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