Before I delve in, a quick dictionary entry.
"Legazie" (Leh-gah-z)
To be thankful or appreciative of one's legacy.
A combination of legacy & grazie (Italian for 'thank you')
The sports world has been all a twitter about the legacy of one Lebron James versus the 1000 LBS gorilla known as Air Jordan. Whichever side of the fence you fall on that argument, it's part of grander debate that can encompass sports on every level, and every variation of competition. It wasn't too long ago that Rhonda Rousey's legacy was dominance, now it's failure.
As I watch the extra innings of a Twins rubber match their former skipper's legacy comes to mind. Gardy got the Twins to have an extended stretch of success but with the way it ended, how many people actually weigh all the good versus those years of putridness? I'd guess, not many.
Getting even more local, there's Jim Kleinsasser, Travis Hafner, Roger Maris, Carson Wentz, Matt Cullen and Matt Strahm. All with strong connections or origins in North Dakota. All still talked about with some frequency. All recognized and pedestalized for their accomplishments
Those are some of the legacies that have been established from this part of the world.The best example of a local legacy, a legend even is Brock Jensen. If you're reading this, you're likely already aware of all of the accomplishments that were completed while he played from under center. If you happen to not know, it's worth your time to look em up. He may have come from Wisconsin but he's one of Fargo's most beloved sons.
But it doesn't take college championships, a home run record or being a top selection in the draft to begin a legacy. Nay, even a high school player can create a legacy.
Recently I was at the inaugural induction of a high school's hall of fame. It wasn't happen stance or even in consideration of a specific topic to think or write about but because I to this day have a strong allegiance to the school.
I knew of or had a personal connection with all but one of the inductees plus many of the people that were chosen to give their introductions. During the speeches, legacy was a clear thread. The legacy of their accomplishment on field or court but also for the way that they conducted themselves and represented the greater things in their lives within their play. I think that's the best legacy a person can have.
To not get so wrapped up in the competition as to lose sight of the One that they represented.
Sports are at best an amoral sphere and more often deserve the description of immoral but it's a symptom of the corruptness in this world, not a cause of it. But I digress, legacy is about making a difference, making an impact. It'll keep being a talker on radio and tv a like, no matter how the NBA Finals go - and for the record, I'm all for seeing GSW lose again! But the legacy of Lebron James, Michael Jordan or Joe Blow down the street only matters as much the difference that they make in the world. Apart from Jesus, there is no difference to be made. His is the legacy that we all should strive for and be mindful of day to day.
In a word, Salvation. The greatest legacy.
So whatever our legacy is, we should not lose sight of the better things present in each day. And when, like the dawning of a new day, you have enough clarity to see them, don't forget or neglect to be thankful. Because, like the title that I crafted for this one, a melding of thankfulness and legacy is a great place to find yourself!