Day 27 of Embracing the wonders of Life!

Over the weekend, we gathered for the annual “Van Kesteren Foundation” event, where we received updates on the various projects supported by the foundation. For those unfamiliar, I proudly bear the Van Kesteren name – it’s my mother’s side. The foundation owes its existence to my youngest uncle, Gerard.

Gerard’s journey began in a humble barber family. At the age of 17, he made a bold decision: he wanted to leave school and become a barber. However, my grandmother intervened. She literally dragged him back to school by his ears, determined to ensure he had the opportunity to create a better life for himself.

Gerard listened. He didn’t let his grandmother’s lesson fall on deaf ears. Instead, he became one of the youngest “registered accountants” in the Netherlands. His career took him from Douwe Egberts/Sara Lee to bringing Kuehne & Nagel to the stock exchange as their CFO. Notably, he even earned the title of CFO of the Year in Switzerland – an impressive feat for a Dutch barber’s son.

The story of the intervention of my grandmother, has been the repeating story I got drilled by my own mother, in her strive to make me aware on how to increase my own chances in life.

But Gerard didn’t stop there. He internalized the wisdom passed down from his mother. Rather than merely accumulating wealth, he found his life’s purpose: supporting projects that empower children in developing countries through education. It’s about enriching lives – not just for the children themselves but also for their families.

The Real Insight: Leaving a Legacy

Now, let’s reflect. What legacy do we want to leave behind? Is it a yacht or an expensive car? Or is it something more profound? Gerard’s example reminds us that impact transcends material possessions. By spreading knowledge and enabling opportunities, we contribute to a more equitable distribution of wealth across the world.

So, as we navigate our own paths, let’s consider how we can make a lasting impact. Perhaps it’s through education, mentorship, or supporting causes close to our hearts. Whatever it is, let’s choose to leave a legacy that extends beyond ourselves – one that echoes through generations.

Remember, it’s not about what we accumulate; it’s about what we give back. 🌟🌎📚