A fine essay. The idea of affecting legacy after we are gone takes the transactional mindset to a rather high--i mean low--level. This is a thoughtful response.
Since you mentioned FW Woolworth: As it turns out, I live in the Woolworth legacy every day, since my department building was built by FW’s successors and was named for him.
And there was the famous sit-in at the Woolworths lunch counter in NC. The Internet tells me that site is now a civil rights museum.
Following your discussion, though, that’s not an argument for the control of legacy. I doubt young people associate our building with the store or the man. Even though I am old enough to remember the store, I never connected it with the legacy of my building until someone pointed it out after about 20 years! And who knows--it may get renamed soon, as so many architectural and administrative legacies are being questioned and dismantled.) So, we can’t control our legacy -- nor can our grandchildren!
Thanks - that's an interesting story. Legacies can certainly adapt over time. Like works of fiction, we have no control over them once they're out in the world :)
Great reflection on one of life's big questions! I've reflected quite a lot on similar things, and I'm especially reflecting on how it connects with our constant presence here online. I strive to live my analogue life 'to the fullest,' and yet I stumble. Often. But I keep reminding myself that life is for living. So let's do just that!
Thanks Minna! Yes, when it comes to living our life to the fullest, it's important to determine which online activities we would add to the list of important/meaningful tasks, especially as it's so easy to fall into time-wasting rabbit holes online :)
A fine essay. The idea of affecting legacy after we are gone takes the transactional mindset to a rather high--i mean low--level. This is a thoughtful response.
Since you mentioned FW Woolworth: As it turns out, I live in the Woolworth legacy every day, since my department building was built by FW’s successors and was named for him.
And there was the famous sit-in at the Woolworths lunch counter in NC. The Internet tells me that site is now a civil rights museum.
Following your discussion, though, that’s not an argument for the control of legacy. I doubt young people associate our building with the store or the man. Even though I am old enough to remember the store, I never connected it with the legacy of my building until someone pointed it out after about 20 years! And who knows--it may get renamed soon, as so many architectural and administrative legacies are being questioned and dismantled.) So, we can’t control our legacy -- nor can our grandchildren!
Thanks - that's an interesting story. Legacies can certainly adapt over time. Like works of fiction, we have no control over them once they're out in the world :)
Great reflection on one of life's big questions! I've reflected quite a lot on similar things, and I'm especially reflecting on how it connects with our constant presence here online. I strive to live my analogue life 'to the fullest,' and yet I stumble. Often. But I keep reminding myself that life is for living. So let's do just that!
Again, great stuff, and happy belated birthday!
Thanks Minna! Yes, when it comes to living our life to the fullest, it's important to determine which online activities we would add to the list of important/meaningful tasks, especially as it's so easy to fall into time-wasting rabbit holes online :)
I don’t care about legacy. I jus want to LIVE fully while I’m here. Great piece.
Thanks Clint! Great attitude to have :)
Wow - thanks for the great feedback and insights, Mauro. Glad you got something out of it :)