Some say the way to live with purpose is with your dying day in mind.

I want to leave a legacy of words that will outlast me.

I want to plant seeds that will bear fruit long after I step into glory.

A story that I won’t forget is Alfred Nobel’s transformation from “merchant of death” to a champion of humanity.

Nobel in 1867 invented dynamite, growing rich from the coffers of war and destruction.

Until a pivotal moment in 1888.

Upon the death of Alfred’s brother, Ludvig, a French newspaper mistakenly published his obituary. Mistakenly thinking that Alfred had died, the scathing eulogy branded him a “merchant of death” who had grown rich by producing new ways to “mutilate and kill.”

Alfred was mortified.

A crisis of conscience led him to ensure he would be remembered differently, and in 1895, Alfred Nobel wrote a will dedicating most of his fortune—about $265 million today—to establish prizes for those who benefited humanity.

The mistaken article fixed Nobel’s eyes on his death, and because of this, his life was changed.

What legacy will you leave?

When you step from earth, will you take your wisdom, experience, and all you’ve learned with you, or will you take time to record what the Lord has spoken to your heart?

This is one reason why I encourage people to write and publish their words. Not just for momentary gain, although that is possible, but for posterity.

It’s not about writing a perfect book or telling a faultless story. It’s about handing your life to those that follow. Allowing them the privilege to stand on your shoulders, avoid your mistakes, and gain from your successes.

You have a story to tell. Wisdom to share.

You have something precious to give to benefit others now and something precious to leave for tomorrow.

Never forget that.

Grace for the day,

David