Hello,
This week I’ve been reflecting on the topic of legacy more than usual. Given that my current work involves serving seriously ill children and their families, end of life and legacy-related conversations happen more often than in more common environments.
One other reason for reflecting on the topic of legacy is the fact that I’m preparing to facilitate an #ExperienceTO historical tour of High Park in a few weeks, and I find the story of the Howard family to be inspiring in this regard.
Background: John and Jemima Howard purchased their lakeside property which stretched from Lake Shore Road to Bloor Street in 1836, four years after immigrating to York (now Toronto) from England. Howard, a trained architect, engineer and land surveyor, designed a small Regency-style picturesque cottage at the south end of the property. They named this cottage Colborne Lodge in honour of Howard’s patron, Sir John Colborne, Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada from 1828 – 1836. They called the property High Park because of the height of the hill overlooking Humber Bay and Lake Ontario. John and Jemima lived on and off at Colborne Lodge and their home in the City until John’s retirement in 1855 when they moved back to the Lodge permanently.
Legacy: In 1873 the Howards signed an agreement to convey High Park, their country property, to the City of Toronto to be maintained as public parkland. Three years later, in 1876, the City took ownership of 120 acres of the Howards’ 165 acre estate. The Howards retained ownership of Colborne Lodge and the surrounding 45 acres until John’s death in 1890. (source: High Park Nature)
While each one of us may reflect on our legacy in our own way, it seems wise to do this now (i.e., as early as possible) as opposed to when we’re at the end our lives.
Three actions you may want to take:
- With a pen and a notebook before you, reflect on your life’s purpose, your family, and the legacy you’d like to leave behind.
- Live each day with joy, honour, and the realization that it may be your last, as it may very well be.
- Join us for #ExperienceTO: High Park Historical Tour on June 7th.
Thank you for taking the time to read my weekly e-newsletter. I appreciate it.
Until next time,
Alex Rășcanu
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