When one leaves over a legacy for those around him/her, its as if the person is still living amongst them. When his/her principles and values are followed and respected that again is as if that person is still within our midst.
Gilgamesh had a close friend by the name of Enkidu who got killed by a slow and painful death by the god’s. After losing such a close friend, Gilgamesh was determined to discover the secret to mortality. He embarked on a mission across the land to find Utnapishtim, whom was known to posses “the secret” to life . Eventually he discovered, living physically forever is impossible, however he can leave over something of value to future generations, thus leaving over a legacy.
The Gemara in Tractate Berachos 18A says “ אלו צדיקים שבמיתתן נקראו חיים” The Kli Yakar (Bereishis 47:29) explains Tzadkim are considered alive, when they leave over teachings for those to follow in their footsteps.
Furthermore the Gemara in Tractate Yevomos 97A says “ שיאמרו דבר שמועה מפי בעוה’ז דאמר רבי יוחנן משום רבי שמעון בן יוחי כל ת’ח שאומרים דבר שמועה מפיו בעולם הזה שפתותיו דובבות בקבר“ anyone who quotes a teaching of their Rebbi, it’s as if their rebbis’ mouth is moving in the grave. Meaning as if he is still alive.
We see from these 2 Gemaras how important it is for one to leave a legacy. If one does leave a legacy that is followed, its as if that person is still currently alive. Those who got to witness ones legacy while they were alive, have the responsibility to carry on that person’s heritage after their death. A person may think he’s doing an insignificant act during his life, when in reality this can make a lasting impression on others. As the famous quote goes “leave a lasting footprint that will be remembered by those whose lives you touched” Shmarz, 1978
What if the most valuable gift we can give our future generations is not a visible item, but a piece of ourselves? We want to be remembered for what we have contributed to the world. Everyday through our actions we are creating our legacy which we hope will be of everlasting
