The Language of Legacy

Family, it's not a light thing to know that my voice is used in many capacities. You see, many of you know me through the realm of public speaking and presentations. However, the volume of my voice and my my veracity - my authenticity and truth - have always been first experienced by my daughters, Miracle & Hope.

There is no way that the legacy I'm building for them and in front of them could be of value if they didn't first see me and hear me speaking life to them and through them. That is important to remember. No matter how many stages I build from, they are always and will always be my first and last audience. That, my friend, is the language is legacy.

In every word we speak, every story we tell, and every lesson we impart, we are crafting something far more enduring than ourselves; we are curating a legacy. The language of legacy is filled with more actions than words. And when the two marry, something brilliant occurs. Whether we realize it or not, our voices and our stories are the blueprints for the foundations upon which our children, mentees, students, and audiences will build their futures.

Our voices are more than just sounds; they are instruments of influence. Each time we speak, we are either building up or tearing down. In our personal and professional lives, the words we choose can inspire confidence, instill values, and ignite passion. This is especially true when it comes to those who look up to us: our children, mentees, students, colleagues, and followers. They listen not just to what we say, but how we say it and portray. Those words, then, journey long after we have spoken them.

Consider the words of a parent encouraging a child to dream big, a mentor guiding a young professional through their career, or a teacher inspiring a student to push beyond their limits. These words are not just fleeting sounds; they are seeds planted in fertile soil, destined to grow into something meaningful. That is legacy. What adds more value is when those same people see us practicing what we preach. Ponder this: Have you become more of a "speaker" than a "doer" of your words?

Stories are the vessels that carry our legacy across time. When we play an active role in those stories, we help others make sense of the world - in some way, shape, or form. We pass down wisdom that enables people we may never meet to build their own legacies on strong foundations. This is why the stories we show and tell must add value and veracity. Whether they are about overcoming adversity, achieving success, or simply navigating the ups and downs of life, they are the threads that weave the tapestry of our legacy.

The language of legacy is not just about the here and now; it is about building a foundation for the future. It is about ensuring that those who come after us have the tools, the knowledge, and the inspiration they need to thrive. This foundation is built on the lessons we teach, the values we uphold, and the examples we set.

For leaders, this means being intentional about the messages we send. Are we encouraging growth and resilience, or are we fostering doubt and fear? Are we sharing stories that uplift and inspire, or are we perpetuating negativity? Have we become entangled in a dreadful web of what's deemed "popular" or are we determined to stand in and on what's positive and powerful? Our words determine the strength of the structures that are built upon it. And if no one else can stand on what we're building, what's the point?

As we navigate the language of legacy, we must recognize the immense value in our voice, the power of our volume, and the integrity of our veracity. These elements are not just tools for today; they are beacons for tomorrow. When we put value on our voice, we speak with intention, knowing that our words can uplift and empower. When we control our volume, we understand that the way we deliver our message can either resonate deeply or fall flat. And when we maintain veracity, we commit to truth and authenticity, building trust that transcends time.

By showing up consistently with words and actions of value, we set a precedent for future generations. Whether in public or in private, we demonstrate that our contributions matter, that our voices are instruments of change, and that our truth is worth standing for. This is how we create a better world - not just for ourselves, but for everyone who follows in our footsteps. Let us always be mindful of the legacy we are crafting, ensuring that it ignites others to do the same, carrying forward a torch of purpose, passion, and positive impact.

I'm grateful that I get to do what I do for you. The greatest value, however, is doing it as a #girldad and allowing them to see the world experience the benefits of what they've been getting all of their lives.

If you're interested in building the language of your legacy, register for our November Crush The Stage today!