Recently I visited the National Portrait Gallery – located across the street from the Capital One Arena, home of the Washington Capitals, 2018 Stanley Cup champions.
The gallery tour was thoroughly enjoyable. Probably the presidential portraits are the most famous collection. It was interesting to note how the artistic styles have changed over the centuries. The first were very formal, oozing Founding Father gravitas. In recent decades, there is a less formal Man of the People vibe.
But with all of the portraits, there appears to be an intent to impart a legacy of leadership.
But leadership may take different forms. For example, below are 6 post Civil War presidential portraits. And here’s my take on the legacy messaging:
Ulysses Grant: exudes purpose and resolve.
Theodore Roosevelt: a man of action holding a riding crop and gloves, a not-so-subtle reminder of his glorious Charge of San Juan Hill.
Harry Truman: indicates forthrightness.
Richard Nixon: a studied informality which perhaps attempts to mask his formal nature.
George H.W. Bush: keen awareness of duty.
George W. Bush: genial and comfortable in his role.
Agree with me or not. Each man had his own unique perspective and history. Since 1788, the citizens of the United States have elected their presidential leaders – each with his own distinct legacy.
So here’s the thing. Legacy is not just reserved for the Leaders of the Free World.
Each of us are creating our own legacy. Every day.
What will we be remembered for?
How do you wish to be remembered?
As a person who was … Caring? Extremely successful? Top of the class? Famous? Infamous? Loyal? Civic Minded? Couch potato? Gifted writer? Talented artist? Compassionate listener? Loving family member? Generous soul? Faithful member of your spiritual community? Gracious? Kind? Purpose driven? Adventurer? Curmudgeon? Amusing……
How do you wish to be remembered? What will be your legacy?
What message do you want your “life’s portrait” to convey?
Today is a good day to pick up your life’s palette and brush.
Begin being the person that you wish others to remember.
And as always, I encourage you to begin from a place of joy.
