Leaving a Legacy…
Legacy. The setting was a family farm in Madison, North Carolina, all aglow in the warm magnificence of fall. It was complete with cows, hay bales, red barns, and a backdrop of rolling hills and mature trees. My client had a very special reason for the family photo shoot that we had planned. It was to commemorate the celebration of more than 50 years of marriage for her parents. She had explained that the family had not had photos taken in a long while. The vision was not for a stiff and formal session, but for one that captured special moments…special feelings…in a special place (with the cows). I knew I was capturing a legacy, but I didn’t know how powerful it would be.
Proverbs 31:28 says, “Her children arise up and call her blessed; her husband also and he praiseth her.” This is the legacy that Mrs. Malisia is creating for her family, and it is apparent in the way that her daughters talk about her influence. Her loving nature has a ripple effect. Although I have only met her one time, I felt this sweet spirit in her warm hug and kiss on my cheek as we finished the session.
Clarence Budington Kelland said, “My father didn’t tell me how to live. He lived and let me watch him do it.” Mr. Billy just celebrated his 80th birthday, and in those years, he has clearly done exactly what that quote says. His daughters clearly admire him and the example he has been for them. In a short time, I came to know his gentle strength (and his mischievous sense of humor) that fall afternoon.
Mrs. Malisia and Mr. Billy have shared more than 50 years together. They have lived a life of hard work and love of the Lord. The fruits of their labor include Christian service, two successful daughters, and they have built a loving family. In reading Facebook posts on the portraits that have been posted, it has been so clear that this couple is beloved by many in their family, church, and community. I aspire to leave such a lasting legacy…
A legacy is not leaving something for people. It is leaving something in people. ~ Peter Strople
Blessings ~
Lisa