The legacy I give to you
May not be wealth or shiny toys
But my life, as it was lived,
So you can have it in your mind.
I’ve always tried to live my life
With honor, faith and dignity
So I could not be put to shame
Of anything that’s said of me.
This did not make an easy life;
I forfeit gains I might have had,
And took great risk in much I did
Unbothered by security.
Security’s a fantasy
Since fate will always have last laugh.
For all you’ll ever truly own are
Days you lived and their impact.
Know the truth! There are bad men
Who will destroy what is not theirs,
And take from others all they have,
To leave behind just blood and sand.
So there must be, those men who fight,
With courage, hope, and bravery
For decent people whom they see
Against the cruel and darkling lights.
Listen to what’s in my heart!
I know it’s hard to understand;
But life needs meaning to bring joy;
And you must know that it is right.
Seek a path where you can go
Amid your duties when they call
From country, friends, and family
To achieve those goals that need to be.
I am you and you are me,
Linked by birth and history.
While our futures can’t be known
We still make our destinies.
To be among the honored few
Who know that what they do is true;
And know it deep within their soul
Is the gift I leave to you.
- Finding the Light of G‑d, pages 94-95