Choosing a Legacy: Reflecting on Enduring Epitaphs

Gravestones are not just silent witnesses to our passing, but they often carry words that reflect our life's essence. These words serve as a testament to the values, actions, and moments that have shaped us. For many, finding the perfect word or phrase for their gravestone is a deeply personal and reflective process.

My Gravestone Story: A Tale of Kindness

I am known among my friends and family as a chatty Cathy, a lively and cheerful presence. Given the nature of my interactions, it was a challenge to distill my essence into a single word. My name, Karen Marie, is a reflection of the dualities that define me. Amidst all the choices, kindness emerges as the most fitting word for me.

]'Kindness' resonates deeply within me. It is a commitment to being compassionate, patient, and generous with everyone. Though I sometimes stumble, I strive to maintain this path, even when boundaries are pushed. My best friends might describe me with words like 'Hilarious,' 'Fun,' or 'Quirky.' My partner might say 'Loved' or 'Loving.' And my students, wise souls in their own right, might choose 'Wise.'

Strangers, alas, might be more literal and decide on 'Hairy,' acknowledging my abundant hair. But in the grand scheme of things, I don’t truly care what word is carved on my gravestone since I am prepared to embrace other realities and universes.

Best wishes to all. As for me, it’s time to dive into the great beyond.

Exploring Other Perspectives

The questions we pose about our lives and our afterlives are as varied as the individuals who find themselves at this crossroads. Here are a few more reflections on what people might choose for their epitaphs.

What would be your epitaph?

"It's All a Lie"

One common thought is the acknowledgment of life’s uncertainties. This phrase once attributed to a stranger reflects a desire to challenge the notion of permanence and the idea that life might not be as it seems. It is a declaration of the unknown and an embrace of the mysteries that await beyond our conscious journey.

"Ughh Ick Phbbbbt..."

In our final moments, what we might say could be as humorous as it is profound. This lighthearted and whimsical phrase is a clear example of the advice to embrace humor and leave the world with a smile. It suggests that life should be lived with joy, regardless of the end.

Cremation and Ashes to the Ocean

For some, the idea of returning to nature is both comforting and respectful. Being cremated and having one’s ashes scattered at sea offers a unique connection to the vastness of the ocean. This choice might be driven by a desire to contribute to the cycle of life and to leave a small part of oneself behind in a beautiful and serene manner.

Baha’i Epitaphs

As Baha’is, there is a profound belief in the unity of all life. For two individuals of this faith, choosing to have the inscription 'We came forth from God and return unto Him' can be deeply meaningful. These words encapsulate a sense of eternal return and a belief in a continuous journey of spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The final line, 'Death - Burial,' is a reminder that even in the face of mortality, there is a profound connection to the natural cycle of existence.

Life in Summery and Sanskrit

For those who find inspiration in ancient languages, a Sumerian inscription could offer a unique and timeless legacy. While the meaning may be lost on others, the charm lies in the curiosity and wonder it might generate. It also highlights the desire to leave behind a legacy that is both meaningful and mysterious, etched in symbols that transcend time and place.

For all these different choices, the desire to live a life worth remembering is universal. Whether it’s kindness, humor, nature, or mystery, the epitaph reflects the essence of our lives and the enduring legacy we aim to leave behind.