Aaron Swartz, a computer genius, died a few days ago. Only 26 years old, he did not leave behind any children, but he did leave a legacy of developing RSS and positively affecting many individuals who knew him. RSS stands for Rich Site Summary but is more descriptively expanded to Really Simple Syndication. It is a process whereby a person can receive all updates on a site automatically and immediately. For instance, you can receive notice of every new posting on this blog by clicking on the RSS keys (go ahead — give it a try!). Aaron had a positive impact on others by working tirelessly to expand access to information on the Internet. You can read more about him at a classic information sharing site, wikipedia. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaron_Swartz.
Aaron’s death at age 26 illustrated that it is never too early to contemplate one’s legacy. Tragically, he committed suicide; most people die from physical disease or accidents. I see legacy potentials for me in my children, my impact on students and client, my research findings and related comments, and this blog (!). Maybe I could try a bit harder. I worked on a political cause this year. That could be step in the right direction. I have not made a charitable contribution in many months — that might be something to do today.
Have you thought about your legacy? It could be in your children, your ideas, your effect on others, etc. Setting a specific goal helps a person achieve the goal. What legacy would you like to leave?
John Malouff, PhD, JD
Assoc Prof of Psychology
Thank you John for bringing Aaron’s legacy and sad early death to everyone’s attention. I knew a little about him from recent news reports, but not all that much. At the time, his death for me raised issues about how the legal system works (not just in USA either) especially how much stress a person can be put under when under investigation and facing charges and possible jail time. Whether that was the ‘final straw’ for Aaron or not…it surely was a contributing factor in his suicide. 🙁
In answer to your question about what legacy we would like to leave, I thought it appropriate to also discuss how do we want to live our life first?
I remember reading quite some time ago that in order to find out what is important to you, you should write an obituary (your own!). But, you should write it from a couple of different perspectives. Firstly, write what you think your partner or a close loved one would say about you and your life.
Then, someone you have worked with. Then, someone you knew in your neighbourhood or club etc.
Finally, write the one that you WISH will be said about you. Include what impact you had on those around you and what memories people will have about what you did during your life.
I found it a terrifying prospect at the time…and now all these years later, your blog post about legacies has reminded me that perhaps it’s time to tackle it again.
Anyone else feel the need?
Hi Susan. I like the obituary idea! I may try that myself.