Creating a Legacy (or Why I’m Buying More Photo Albums)

If you’re like me, you probably have a ton of photos on your phone that you’ve never printed. Years of moments and memories stored on that single personal device, great for safekeeping, but a chore to print and put into a photo album. I’ve tried to get into a rhythm of the task, but it always gets pushed aside for “another day.” 

But last night, as I sat on my floor looking through old photo albums, I was reminded of the value of those photos and the stories they tell. It’s funny what you forget over the years. The once-in-a-lifetime family vacation, the birth of your first child (we all looked so young then!), the special moments you had just weeks before a parent or grandparent’s passing.  

Photo albums represent a history, a legacy of sorts. They’re visual reminders of where we’ve come from that can anchor us when the future is uncertain. They remind us of our family identity, the common bonds and experiences we share, the good times and the not-so-good times and the simple fact that God has brought us through. 

Memories tie us together when the world would tear us apart. 

“One generation shall praise your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.”

— Psalm 145:4 NKJV 

The Bible encourages us to remember. To recount the mighty and often miraculous ways God has carried us over the years. Too often we want to be free of our past, but a photo album filled with smiling faces and happy moments remind us that it wasn’t all bad. We’re still here, despite the struggles, the mistakes, and even the failures.  

The next generation needs to know His unfailing goodness. They need to know they can count on God for their tomorrow and whatever curve ball life might throw their way. 

If you see me buying more photo albums, you’ll know why. I’ve made a fresh decision to build upon a legacy of life and love. I’m creating a system in this digital age to remember.