So, today is the day. Seven years. So long - so brief. Over
the last two decades our family has had to say goodbye so many wonderful
people. It hurts. It hurts especially as a mother. I see other young people with
“innocent” hearts, those who have not been exposed to death, at times very raw
death. I envy that.
Under our roof we share a common perspective, a perspective
that has enabled us to endure. My hope as a mother is for the world to be a
better place because of my children. We take nothing with us when we die. Most
of what we leave behind means nothing. When someone dies, someone else cleans
up. They sort through and evaluate items that are worthless, meaningless.
True legacy is not in things. It lies within the hearts of
those whose lives we have made different - and hopefully better - because of our own lives. I see Lorna King when my children talk of family. I see Terri Wallin when my children express
the joy of living and laughter. I see David
Lawson when my children care for
others in the community. I see Joey Marotta’s bravery, unassuming nature
and self-sacrifice. Sometimes, I just see his face within my own son’s.
On this day I reflect upon my Dad. I reflect upon his
legacy. His legacy was not in monetary things. In fact, sorting through his
THINGS was more painful than his death. His legacy was in people. So many of
you came to express grief with us seven years ago. So many of you tell us about
how he touched your lives. He lives on in your words and within our hearts. (Please
keep doing this.)
The Jackson perspective is to get up. When bad things happen
you have two choices, you stay down or you get up. We get up. We chose to
perceive the hard things as meaningful. We chose to believe God can take those
painful things and create good.
God has used these things to give me thoughtful, caring,
loving children who trust in Him. I am truly blessed.
