Death & Accomplishments

I walked into his bedroom, fully aware that he had already passed away and that his body lay still in the room.

Surprisingly, the sight of him at peace brought me a sense of relief. He had been in considerable pain towards the end, and now that suffering was over.

My uncle had passed away just a few hours earlier, surrounded by his loving family, holding his wife's hand.

He had led a long and fulfilling life.

This is part of the natural cycle of life.

The representatives from the funeral home were delayed by traffic on their way to retrieve his body, so we gathered around him, sharing stories and memories.

A priest, who had known my uncle since childhood, called and was put on speakerphone so everyone could hear.

He offered a heartfelt prayer and then began discussing the funeral arrangements.

To prepare for the eulogy, he requested that we all think about and send him a list...

A list of my uncle's attributes... not his accomplishments.

He repeated himself, emphasizing its importance.

"I need a list of his attributes... not accomplishments."

It was a great reminder that I wanted to share with you in this Saturday Note: 

You will not be remembered for your 'accomplishments' at the end of the day. 

Or your bank account.

Or your resume.

Or your social media followers.

Or your house.

Or your car. 

We are remembered for the things you can't buy.