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On Monday I attended the funeral of the Dad of friends of ours. I found the tributes read and sung by the grandchildren to be particularly moving . This humble man, who had migrated to the UK from Italy in the 60’s with just one suitcase and lots of dreams was said to be “a loyal family man of few words, who loved his garden”. I’ve also been at St George’s House in Windsor this week with Faith Leaders from different traditions. One of the friends I met there is related to the late, Sir Roger Bannister. We of course remember him for being the first man to run a mile in under 4 minutes but actually when he was alive he said that he wanted to be remembered for his achievements more as a neurologist than a runner. It has really got me thinking about remembrance and how I will want to be remembered when I’m gone. In discussions with people about this, the common response is often “I’m still here, why do I want to think about the things left after I’m gone”. I think there is something important about reflecting on the impression we are making on others and the impact we can have on people’s lives. Maya Angelou famously said “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” My Mum was very ill in hospital last year following chemotherapy. We were humbled by all of the nurses but the ones who stood out for her were the ones who made her feel at ease, who made sure she didn’t feel a burden, who went the extra mile to make sure she felt valued. As I get older I appreciate the friends I have who make me feel good, who are positive and uplifting, who are authentic and honest. I believe it’s important to be mindful of how we make people feel and be looking for ways we can make others’ lives better. In Jewish tradition there is a lovely phrase that is used when someone dies “may their memory be a blessing”. It’s a good reminder that we must remember people after they have died so their legacy lives on but it’s also important for us to reflect on our own lives and what impact we are having on others. Prophet Muhammad once stood still with his head bowed out of respect when a funeral went past. He used the moment to remind his followers that every human being deserves respect in life and death, whatever their background. And he taught the importance of attending funerals and visiting graveyards so we think about our own mortality while remembering those who have gone before us. Most of us will never run a 4 minute mile or other feats that break records but we can make a difference to those around us by being the best versions of ourselves and trying where we can to reflect that in everything we do.