Recently my husband and I took a trip to Memphis, Tennessee. We wanted to visit Graceland, the home of American music icon, Elvis Presley. With it being the second most visited house in the United States next to the White House, our tour was most informative and certainly did not disappoint our intriguing minds about this Rock n’ Roll classic star.
Being the second baby born of identical twins, Elvis was the only one to survive. His mother did not realize she had twins and was surprised to go into labor immediately after giving birth to a stillborn child whom she named Jesse. To his parents Elvis was always acknowledged as a special gift from God. As a child who grew up in poverty with no indoor plumbing or electricity, he always knew that there would be something better and greater for his life. Being a lover of soulful music and church choirs, at the age of 18 he recorded a song for his mother for her birthday. And the rest is history.
Other than when he was drafted in the army, Elvis never toured outside the United States, but his music went everywhere. Being awarded the “Ten Outstanding Young Men” by the U.S. Junior Chamber, his philanthropy was distributed to over 50 organizations including St. Jude’s and a scholarship fund at the University of Memphis. He also anonymously paid off people’s debts and mortgages. He was a firm believer in the Bible verse Luke 12:48, where it speaks that whoever has been given much, much will also be required. The Elvis Presley foundation continues to give philanthropically to this day as the world continues to listen to his music for all seasons.
While visiting Graceland, I bought a t-shirt with a quote of Elvis’s that reads, “Do something worth remembering.” I believe his legacy resonates those words in the present and the future. Inspired by these words, I want to encourage you to join me in a personal reflection of life. For what will you be remembered? For what do you want to be remembered? Now is the time to begin creating that legacy that will speak of you for generations to come. You are here not just to make a difference but to be a difference. Someone’s life will never be the same because you fulfilled your purpose in life. Do not give up on your dreams. They are significant to more than just you. Let’s keep growing and going. It’s a good time to be you!
Peace and Joy,
Angela