Through semi waken eyes I take a deep sip of Americano at my local coffee shop. Next to me sits a sharply dressed woman grasping a dark pink tinted bag with the name “Kate Spade” blazon upon it in gold letters. Normally, I would think little of this woman or her fashion accessory, but today is different. In the loss of the purse’s namesake, I think a little more deeply about legacy. The truth is, her creation outlasted her and will continue to do so for some time. What she created – what she lovingly crafted – will continue to be found hanging over the shoulders of the chic and working class alike. As such things in popular culture, her output will forever be connected to all waves of people, regardless of class or preference. It will be found in those whom she never met and in those who wouldn’t recognize her face if they saw her.
As I return my gaze to my lovably tarnished laptop, I think of my day. How could my actions and production be remembered after I am gone? Our name carries past our passing, in the hearts and memories of those we met, and many we have not. We will never know fully what people think of us – neither what they admire or detest. We can assume, however, the spirit of our character will live on.
Legacy is a funny thing. It boils down the sum of our existence into what is essential to survive an all too human memory. What will separate us from the waves of people around us floating on daily?
Love?
Love.
This is the key, for what we love produces the most affecting of memories. Like this handbag’s creator who sincerely loved what she created, our labors of love will connect us to the human hearts around us. How we love our friends, our families, and our work, will be remembered and usher us into eternity.
Affection always outlasts production. So today, love well. Your legacy depends on it.
Matt simon blog 