Personal History

[kokopelle]

I've been thinking about how people leave a legacy in history. We have many lives. These range from the most private thoughts to the most public exposure. There are people who share these with us, but how much do we really share?

Here is my question to my LJ friends. What history would you leave if you passed away tomorrow? Assume you could hover over those left behind. What emotions would you feel as they went through your personal possessions? Would it be closer to joy or embarrassment? What would you leave behind at home and your workplace? Would those close to you have a different reaction than those who are social or work acquaintances?

What if the end was near but not quite here. Would you rearrange some part of your life if you had warning?

Comments

[valleysailor.livejournal.com]

I'm 58 years old and have thought these very thoughts. I have been making the transition between keeping every thing and being more selective in what I keep for 'posterity'! I burned journals and diaries a couple of Christmases ago. I weeded out pictures of people no one will know when I die and disposed of negatives of long gone photos. I find I don't need nearly as many clothes or as much jewelry as I once did. When I die, I want the cleaning process to be swift and sweet. I don't think any one will be embarrassed by my life's possessions and I hope that what I leave will be of some value to others.