Abu 239- “Nani olu anyi k’aga eji cheta anyi.”
The Anglican hymn above is a popular hymn sung mostly during burials. It portrays a deep sense of metaphor, reflective to only the conscious. Regrettably, people sometimes misconstrue the message it carries, by thinking it is sung for only the dead. They forgot that the sermons, prayers, and songs sung on such solemn occasions are for the living, not the dead because; the dead know not what is happening. Only their memories live. The religious rituals are therefore meant to stir, and encourage the living, to lead a better life, knowing that in the journey of human existence, each individual weaves a unique thread, leaving an indelible mark, either good, or bad, on the sands of time.
As we navigate the routes of life, it is only natural to ponder: What legacy will we leave behind? Whether living or dead. What imprint will we etch into the annals of history? Reflecting on these questions prompts a deeper exploration of purpose, impact, and the essence of our being; as reflected in the stanzas of the hymn.
It is pertinent to note that our actions define our legacy. Whether grand or modest, every choice we make ripples through time, shaping the narrative of our lives, either way. Knowing these, as a person, what will you like to be remembered for? Your acts of kindness, compassion, truth, trust, selflessness, and other positive attributes? Or will your legacy be tarnished by greed, hypocrisy, deceit, indifference, and cruelty? The path we tread today determines the footprints we leave behind for posterity because posterity is always a just judge.
It is also noteworthy that our relationships form an integral part of our legacy. The bonds we forge with family, friends, and strangers alike leave an enduring imprint on the human heart. Will you be remembered as a source of warmth, support, and love? A trusted and faithful spouse, a dedicated and committed parent? Or will your legacy be marked by broken connections and unhealed wounds? Let us remember that the way we touch the lives of others reverberates through generations, shaping the collective consciousness of humanity.
Furthermore, our contributions to our communities, and society at large, shape the legacy we leave behind. Whether through community leadership or, services in the house of God, leaving a lasting legacy should be the watchword of every leader/ Servant. We saw on the internet recently, How Parish Church Council members conspired and kidnapped a Parish Priest for ransom. After your stewardship to your community, and in the church of God; what would you like to be remembered for? As a man/woman of integrity, whose service was spiced with accountability, and transparency? A truth sayer, a committed and transparent church worker, Or will your legacy fade into obscurity, overshadowed by mediocrity, selfishness, wickedness, and apathy?
The impact we make on the world transcends the boundaries of time, echoing across the ages.
Ultimately, our legacy is a reflection of our values, beliefs, and character. It is a testament to the sum total of our existence, showing the essence of who we are and what we stand for. Sometimes, it is important we do a self-appraisal of ourselves. Ask yourself- what will I be remembered for? After your community and church stewardship? Would you like to be remembered for? Your integrity, accountability to public funds, resilience, and authenticity? Or will your legacy be marred by compromise, deceit, hypocrisy, corruption, embezzlement, and betrayal? The legacy we leave behind is not merely a matter of chance but a conscious choice, forged through the crucible of our experiences.
The Abia State example is a quick referral point to the discourse here. A glaring and practical example for that matter. For 24 good years, Abia State was developmentally malnourished, and stagnated. It took the first position in the committee of failed States in Nigeria. From infrastructure, to human capital development, to workers welfare, health, etc. Workers’ salary became a relay baton that was passed from one government, to another.
Today, to the glory of God, the baton has finally entered into the hands of the man, who has been waiting to hit the finishing line. What Abia State lost in 24 years, they have gotten in less than one year, with many other developmental projects going on simultaneously in different parts of the State.
Space will not permit me to start writing about myriads of Gov Alex Otti’s developmental strands because; it is like a bracelet, one does not need any mirror to look at it.
The only takeaway here is, the governors who stagnated Abia for 24 years are being remembered today, just as Gov Alex Otti is being celebrated today, as he will also be remembered in years to come. However, there is a difference. When one is remembered for bad/evil, it is accompanied with curses, but when one is remembered for good, it is accompanied with blessings. The truth is that all these matter.
Today, Dee Sam Mbakwe of the blessed memory is still being remembered, after decades of his exit. That is the legacy of a good man/leader. Just like Gov Alex Chioma Otti, generations of Abia will forever remember him for the massive development he is intentionally bringing to Abia State currently.
In conclusion, the question of what we will be remembered for is not one to be taken lightly. It is a profound inquiry that demands introspection, self-awareness, and conscious living. As we navigate the routes of life, let us strive to leave behind a legacy that illuminates the path for future generations. Let us be remembered not for what we amassed but for what we imparted, not for what we gained but for what we gave, and not for what we achieved but for who we became. For in the end, our legacy is not measured by all the vain accumulations but by the memories we leave behind.
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