Weave into Others

“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” –Pericles

Each and every day we encounter new people in our lives. While some may be engrained in our thoughts as we ponder on the day’s past activities; others may possibly never cross our minds ever again.  But what is interesting to think about are those people—whether they are complete strangers or close loved ones—who just happen to stick in our minds and stay in our hearts for one particular reason or another.      

The great Greek statesman, general, and orator, Pericles (495-429 BC), once stated, “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”  Often referred to as “the first citizen of Athens”, Pericles promoted the arts and literature and ruled Athenian society during the city’s Golden Age.  He was also primarily responsible for fostering Athenian democracy and building the foundations of the Acropolis (including the Parthenon). 

Although he was responsible for building some of the greatest monuments of both the Ancient and Modern Worlds—he still believed that it was more important for himself (as well as the citizens of Athens) to form strong and meaningful relationships with others.  In effect, he wanted to be remembered for the positive influence that he had woven into the lives of his fellow citizens; rather than what he had merely built with stone and mortar.  

Pericles was truly a magnificent man of his time for many reasons; yet, he primarily sticks in my mind and stays in my heart for the wonderful line that I am quoting now.  The examination of his quote helps me to think about and appreciate the valuable people in my own life—from both my past and my present. 

The noteworthy individuals who have woven into my life are all special to me and remembered for different reasons—some good and some bad.  And amazingly, many of those people may also never know the impact that they had made in my life or possibly even remember me at all in their own minds.  Yet, knowing that still does not change their importance to me one bit.  And although I am not always perfect with the way I speak and/or behave; I still try to stay cognizant of the fact that I could also potentially leave a lasting impression on someone else—whether I ever know about it or not.

Nobody is perfect—yet, each and every day, we all still have the same opportunity that Pericles had to make a positive difference in the lives of others. We may not have the political access or the financial backing to build some of the greatest monuments or works of art ever; but, we all do have the choice to weave meaning throughout and form lasting and meaningful relationships with others around us.