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This blog is dedicated in memory of Braxton Bennet Snyder: 1949-2011

I just received a phone call that a long-time friend passed away on Sunday.  My heart is broken for the family and his loved ones.  Brax is now in the arms of the angels and he’s pain-free.  His authentic spirit will live on through countless, humorous, heart-felt stories. He was a kind man, highly admired, with great integrity, who walked proudly and respectively upon this earth.  His footprints are embedded in the hearts of many. His life was too short but his legacy lives on.  Thank you, Brax, for sharing the priceless and precious gifts of your soul.

What kind of legacy will you leave behind?  Have you lived your life fully, not merely existing? Have you loved, laughed, cried, danced, sang, given and thanked enough? Have you forgiven old wounds so your baggage is light? Have you allowed your pain to be your teacher? Have you taken the time to listen rather than focusing on being heard?  Have you come from the pureness of your heart, treating others with the same respect you expect in return?  Have you gone out of your way to bring smiles and comfort to others, even when it hurts?   Have you unraveled the fears of your soul and stretched yourself in ways you never thought were possible?  Have you removed the word “can’t” from your inner dialogue and soared?  Have you cherished the “now”, taken time to just “be” – honoring the moment, yourself and your loved ones? Have you embraced and given thanks for the constant unfolding of miracles? Have you grown in love and wisdom, not just knowledge? Have you stepped into your authenticity, living from integrity?

Death of our loved ones reminds us to find the gifts they left behind?  Their gifts can be our teachers, helping us to reflect on our journey,  tweaking where necessary, so one day our footprints will be honored and cherished with great love,  like those of  Brax’s.  He walked in greatness, and I know his rewards in heaven will reflect his en-light-ening journey on earth.

What kind of  legacy do you want to leave behind?