There are many definitions for the word mark. In my dad's case, he left a distinguishable impression or mark on my perceptions of life. Some of the mark he left behind in me resides deep in my psyche, and some marks are clearly visible and on the surface of my speech, expressions, and gestures.
Like permanent ink, leaving a mark can mean several different things. Regardless, the impact, like a punctuation mark, will determine the meaning of our merit left behind after we are gone.
There's something tangible about leaving our mark or a part of ourselves behind when the intangible envelopes, ultimately, our earthly bodies. It reminds me of carving initials in a tree's bark, marking time, place, and that moment we exist and transferring it, at least in a symbolic way, into the future when our footsteps are no longer.
My dad left his mark on the hearts of many. His brand of love, kindness, and higher purpose is permanently seared in memories and remnants of special days of remembrances...like today.
Yes, there is the striving, the attaining, and the achieving which all have the potential of leaving their mark on the environment around us...and hopefully, it's one of unselfish giving and worthy of what can be called a compassionate marking on the events we call life. However, what we leave as our mark should not be a stain of contempt, feckless fame, or heartless greed. We are obligated to leave a mark on the hearts of those who love us, a mark of goodness that they can carry in their hearts and memories. Our loving kindness should be able to embrace them when they are sad or give them comfort knowing that they are better people for us leaving such a remarkable legacy...a mark that will be indelible.
In the words of Maya Angelou, "Make a mark on the world that can't be erased.' Caps off. Now begin.