Paying it Forward

Paying It Forward: A Legacy of Freedom, Sacrifice, and Service

As I reflect on my life and the journey that has led me to where I am today, I can't help but think about the generations that came before me—the sacrifices they made, the hardships they endured, and the freedom they provided for me to live the life I have today. Their struggles were not just their own, but a legacy of perseverance and determination passed down to me, and I must honor it by paying it forward.

The Immigrant Story: My Grandparents' Sacrifice

I am deeply indebted to my grandparents, who came to this country with little more than hope and a dream. Leaving their respective countries, they crossed the ocean to America without financial backing, no friends or family to help them, and no language skills. Many immigrants faced isolation and discrimination when they arrived in this country, and my grandparents were no exception. They worked tirelessly, often in sweatshops, to make ends meet and to provide for their families.

But they didn't give up. They learned English, persevered in their jobs, and started their own business after many years of struggle. By the time they reached retirement age, they had built a company that served them and many others—especially fellow immigrants who were starting, just like they had.

Their business became a lifeline for others. It funded their family's lives and helped bring over other relatives from their home countries. The sacrifices my grandparents made—enduring years of hardship, isolation, and learning a new language—provided the foundation for my siblings and me to live a life of freedom. They gave us the gift of living where we want, choosing a profession, and marrying who we love. This gift, a life of freedom, was not free—someone earned it through sweat and tears.

The Legacy of Giving: How I Was Helped

Thinking about the sacrifices made by my grandparents and others who came before me, I began to realize why I feel compelled to contribute to the causes I care about today. Whether through my house of worship, the schools I support, or the trees I plant, I know I benefit from the work of others who came before me.

When I started my own business in senior residential care, I was fortunate to have a mentor—a woman named Sarah—who played a pivotal role in helping me get started. Sarah had taken care of my grandfather in the last six months of his life and had been a caregiver to many others. She had run a senior care facility herself and was soon retiring. When I expressed an interest in starting my own business, she taught me how to run it and helped me financially by qualifying for a loan to buy the house I would use for my facility. Without her, my business would never have gotten off the ground.

That business lasted almost five years and provided the foundation for my next venture. It funded my move into the notary business, a profession that would eventually grow beyond just notarizing documents into a full-fledged service for the public.

But, once again, I didn't get here on my own.

Paying It Forward in Notary Work

When I started my notary business, a friend named Joyce was crucial to my success. Joyce had put herself through law school by working as a notary and was now starting her legal career. At the time, Joyce had a notary business that she could no longer support due to her new career demands.  She offered me the chance to take over her clients and grow the business she had built. She passed on her clients and showed me the ropes—taking me on assignments, teaching me the ins and outs of notary work, and helping me develop the skills I needed to succeed. Without Joyce's generosity and mentorship, I may not have found my calling in the notary business.

My Responsibility to Pay It Forward

So, what do I do with these gifts passed down to me? I pay it forward.

Today, I sit on the board of the Senior Advocacy Network, a legal aid nonprofit that helps seniors facing homelessness, eviction, and predatory scams. I feel honored to guide and support the organization's mission to protect vulnerable seniors who, like my grandparents, deserve dignity and care in their later years.

Starting early in my career, I mentored notaries who asked for help. Today, I dedicate eight hours a month to mentoring other notaries in my business. I've spoken at notary events, sharing my journey and helping others build successful businesses. Just as I was helped by those who came before me, I am committed to helping those who come after me.

Making a Difference, One Person at a Time

The reality is that I may never see the full impact of my contributions. The changes I make today may take time to be visible, and I may only partially witness the positive effects of my actions. But I believe that even the most minor actions—helping one person, being a reliable mentor, supporting someone in need—can make a difference. It's not about leading a massive movement; it's about looking around you and recognizing who helped you along the way. Even if you could repay them, think about what you can do today to help someone in your future.

We can start by helping just one person. We can be generous with our time, resources, and knowledge. We can be allies, mentors, and educators. We can be reliable to those who depend on us. These acts give my life meaning and will be the legacy I leave behind.

As a notary and public servant, I have the privilege of working with many individuals who need guidance and support, and I don't take that privilege lightly. Through my work, I strive to improve the world, even if I can't see the results.

In the end, paying it forward isn't just about giving; it's about acknowledging the debts we owe to those who came before us and using our gifts to improve the world for those who come after us.

How will you pay it forward today?

Ready to take the next step toward reaching your goals? Let's connect!   Schedule a strategy call with me, and together, we'll create a clear, personalized plan to help you achieve your vision. I am here to support you – let's get started!

Always at your service,

Laura Biewer