Rich Procter, Senior Writer at BRC Imagination Arts and author of "Sugarball: A Novel of Negro League Baseball," dives into the profound concept of legacy. He discusses how legacy stories, like the biblical tale of Job, resonate through time, illustrating resilience through adversity. Procter emphasizes the transformative power of personal narratives and the imperative for redemption in today's cancel culture. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own legacies and the hope and change they can inspire in others.
Legacy is about creating emotionally resonant stories that inspire connection and motivate meaningful engagement with others.
Powerful legacy narratives, like those of Job and Abraham Lincoln, challenge individuals to act with integrity and courage in their lives.
Deep dives
The Emotion of Legacy
Legacy is fundamentally about creating stories that evoke deep emotional reactions in people, rather than merely passing information from one generation to another. This emotional resonance inspires individuals to revisit and share these stories, thus perpetuating their legacy through human connection. The impact of a well-told story lies in its ability to reveal our shared humanity, which can lead to a desire for meaningful engagement with others. Ultimately, a legacy is dense with significance, challenging us to reflect on the weight of our influence on others and the world around us.
Job as the Template for Legacy Stories
The story of Job from the Bible serves as an archetype for all legacy stories, illustrating the struggle of a righteous person facing unimaginable suffering while retaining faith. This parallels the life of Abraham Lincoln, who, despite being seen as a good person, faced tremendous challenges such as the Civil War and personal loss. Relating these stories to real-life experiences enables people to connect emotionally and see their own capacity for integrity and courage in the face of adversity. This thematic connection encourages individuals to act bravely and compassionately in their own lives.
Calls to Action in Legacy Stories
Great legacy stories often serve as calls to action, motivating individuals to embark on personal journeys of discovery and growth. For instance, the narrative of 'The Wizard of Oz' emphasizes that the power to overcome obstacles lies within oneself, igniting a sense of empowerment. These journeys highlight the importance of change and the emotional lessons learned, which become part of one’s legacy. As individuals engage with these narratives, they are inspired to leave their own mark on the world, reinforcing the interconnectedness of such stories.
The Value of Emotional Engagement
The essence of legacy lies in the emotional engagement it fosters, emphasizing the significance of every interaction one has with others. Stories about redemption and personal growth resonate deeply because they underscore the potential for positive change, even in difficult times. Such narratives remind us that our actions can leave lasting effects on those around us, cultivating a culture of kindness and compassion. By sharing meaningful experiences, people contribute to a larger legacy that can inspire future generations to strive for a better world.
Legacy. It may seem like just a simple word, but it carries immense weight. It’s the kind of term that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and ponder your lasting impact on others, your community, and the world at large. It can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’re here to break it down!
Welcome to "How to Shape a Legacy," a new Masters of Storytelling miniseries, where we break down what legacy truly means and how you can create one that endures. In part one, Maya talks to one of BRC's very own master storytellers, Senior Writer Rich Procter. The two explore what legacy means, explore its facets, and discuss the unique role storytellers can play in crafting a legacy that matters.
To learn more about R Lee Procter's book, "Sugarball: A Novel of Negro League Baseball", visit:
Special thanks to the sponsors of this miniseries, The World Experience Organization, a global institution dedicated to promoting the experience economy, improving the quality of experiences, and enhancing the opportunities for experiential creators worldwide. Learn more: www.worldxo.org
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