Leaving a Legacy

Legendary fashion designer Oscar de la Renta has passed away at the age of 82. He left behind a wife, a son, an empire, and an overflow of women who have felt empowered by his designs. You may not be interested in fashion, or that fact the de la Renta has dressed every First Lady since Jackie Kennedy, but you should take note of the power in his legacy.

Oscar de la Renta was from the Dominican Republic and the only boy of seven children. Against his father’s wishes, he chose to study fashion. He dedicated his life to dressing others, to making women feel beautiful. His goal was to empower women with his artistic design. He was once quoted saying, “My customers are successful working women.” Upon his death there was an outpouring of love for de la Renta from celebrities, journalists, and politicians alike. He is not only remembered as a great designer, but an even greater man and a true gentleman.

Does this make you think about what your legacy will be? How do you want to be remembered? Use these discussions to start a conversation with young adults:

  • Think about the most important people in your life, what is/was their legacy?

  • What would you like your legacy to be?

  • What role would your faith have in how you are remembered? Do you think people would mention your faith as part of your legacy?

  • Jesus only preached the Good News for three years, and he made an impact that is still changing the world today. At this point in your life, what are the things you’ve done that you are most proud of? What do you hope to add to that list in the next year or two?