There’s an ancient Chinese saying that goes “Within three generations, the fortune is lost.” It’s not so much prophetic as it is cautionary. There are many examples of wealthy or powerful families with descendants who didn’t use those resources well.

I had an uncle who was a remarkable man. From poverty, he achieved great success. Nothing and no one can take all that from him – hard work and success truly earned.

He also tried to build an empire. But in my opinion, the wrong way. Without going into specifics, he tried to do it with businesses and wealth. But somewhat not in his children.

It showed.

One thing I’ve realized is they I have to love my children regardless of who they are and even who they will be. I sense they have great destinies but that’s actually not that relevant. I will love them and let go. That’s the best gift they can receive. What they choose to do with it is not my call. I’ll give them what and who I know and then surrender to God or the universe.

I thought they would be my “empire” but that’s the wrong approach.

At the end and center of it all, this is still about God’s kingdom and what it means on earth. It’s not what you think it is. It is definitely not converting everyone in sight nor conquering everything in God’s name.

This is about justice, mercy, grace, and all that is good and worthy.

Those manifests in different forms.

I still believe in a grand vision for my children’s lives per Vito Corleone as I still see the importance for various reasons. But regardless of whether they will be “successful” or not, they cannot be “lost.”

This is still about teaching them to seek and fight for the light. Not to be too soapboxy but the world has enough smart, talented people who abuse and misuse their gifts.

So what is true “empire”?’

It’s in something higher and deeper. It all flows from that.