Today I'm hiking the trails in the Laurence Rockefeller Preserve in Jackson Hole. It's on the site of the JY Ranch, the Rockefeller homestead surrounded by the Grand Teton National Park mostly created by John D. Rockefeller. It's simply some of the most beautiful, spectacular property in the world, attracting millions of tourists from all over the world.
But rather than keep their property bottled up for their own family's enjoyment and privacy, Laurence has not only donated the property, but a visitor center, meeting and restroom structures, utilities, trails, bridges, and an organization to maintain it. And with sufficient money and attention to the architecture, all the structures blend beautifully into the woods environment. Even the restrooms are beautifully designed buildings.
The preserve is free for the public to enjoy. And as I'm hiking along to Phelps Lake, I hope I meet Laurence at an alumni function or some event, so that I can say a huge thank you for giving me one of the most enjoyable days of my life.
Now isn't this a true legacy? Does your legacy compare to this ? If not, it's time to get on it. Leave a wonderful park for the public to enjoy at whatever location appeals to you the most. It could be centered around beaches, woods, mountains, or maybe a downtown cultural center. And spend enough money to do it right - cut no corners.
You can afford it. Just Do It!
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