It's not those creations we're so proud of
Or those ideas we perceive
Not our wonderful childrens public persona
Not the lasting impression we hope to leave

It's not an endowment
Or business built by love
Not the tree we planted in the yard
Or the peace inspired painting.... of a lovely dove

Don't get me wrong I have no cause
To diminish any or all efforts you pursue
I applaud  all good intention, success or fail
And all the things that you will do

I just believe it's not the things we create
That are to be what is thought of....as  our real desire
To leave for a marker as to who we were
As much as it will be our real Empire...
by way of those things...that we do inspire

We may never see...and yet...maybe...