The Wings of Love: Legacy

I was overwhelming frustrated, fatigued and downright mean-spirited the other day. Not that these feelings are anything new (lol), but generally a good night's rest and some kind of indulgence (preferably of the chocolate kind) get me back to normal. Well, that didn't happen and I was at my desk ready to explode. I sent my girl, C'Dub a text that simply said "I'm sooooo fuggin' frustrated! Ugh!" to which she replied "Callin' you in 5."

One thing I love about my friends is that, even if they don't have all the details, sending a distress call/message is always answered. The dynamics are interesting. We fuss, cuss, get it off our chest, remind the one in distress of their great attributes/accomplishments and in no time we're laughing and ready to move on...all in the same call.

One thing C'Dub said began to disturb me last night because it's not only true, but a legacy that's both life-changing and eye-opening. She mentioned my work ethic and how I want to get things done right, etc. While that may not seem earth shattering to others, it saddened me when I realized this is the legacy my dad left me, even though it resulted in disappointments, stress and other limitations in his later years.

leg-a-cy

anything handed down from the past, as from an ancestor or predecessor

My dad grew up in era when opportunities were limited yet there was an unspoken pride in one's ability to hold down a good paying job, provide for their family, be a homeowner and live a comfortable existence. He worked for 30+ years never taking a sick day and only taking off when my sister or I graduated. Like any parent, he wanted only the best for us and demonstrated it through dedication to not only us but his place of employment.

What pains me is I now realize those years of hard work and dedication resulted in his slow demise. It's a long story, but to sum it up, after all those hours spent increasing his employer's bottom line, he was left high and dry when he retired after a heart attack. Going forward, this will serve as an alarming but real reminder to me that you can actually work yourself to death if you allow it.

There has to be a reward beyond a paycheck. Simply meaning I refuse to fully commit myself to anything (or anyone) that does not reciprocate on an equal or greater level. Sure, I make decent money and all, but the truth is that my employer's sole responsibility is to pay me for the work I'm charged to do. Beyond that, I have to make it meet my needs. I have to pursue all things that make me happy, provide tangible and intangible rewards and drive me to pursue and achieve my ultimate goals.

Over the past few years I've tried to consistently plant a seed of entrepreneurial spirit in my niece's psyche. In my heart I know she will be a extremely successful in her chosen field, but I also want her to understand she can also use that knowledge to create a business where she calls the shots instead of settling for the the corporate grind just because. I also realize that owning a business is not for everyone, but want to make sure she has a view of life's full spectrum of possibilities. It's taken me quite a while to realize this, so it's my duty to share my experiences with, including the how and why.

While my dad's legacy is one of dedication, I refuse to lose sight of the fact that reaching goals and pursing autonomy are pieces of the pie that can't be overlooked.


Afterthought... MilesPerHour reminded me that I left out the most important fact, I wouldn't be the person I am today without the numerous sacrifices my parents made over the years. I would be remiss not saying that I am eternally grateful for all they sowed into my life.