What is a True Legacy?

We live in a world where the value of almost everything we possess is measured in monetary terms. Sometimes, we have to move away from this aspect and remember the basic qualities that make us human and which contribute towards making our world a better place to live in.

Leaving a lump sum of money when you leave the world will definitely help the family for a while, but before long it is used up, and with it the memories of the giver can fade away too. People who made a lasting impact on our lives through their actions or deeds, however, are forever remembered as they leave behind a true legacy for us to follow or reminisce about.

Qualities that make a true legacy do not start when a person dies but during a person's lifetime. A parent's love, support and understanding will not only help the child grow into a better person, but will also leave a lasting impact on his character. At each family gathering every good moment spent with the parent will be remembered fondly and it is not surprising to see the same qualities reflected in the characters of other family members. This is nature's way of passing the legacy of genes through the generations.

Another true legacy is passing on the gift of education to the next generation. A good teacher or a mentor will never hold back from transferring his knowledge onto others. The hunger to teach and share of what they know is evident in their passion towards the subject. David Attenborough is one such example and his vast knowledge of nature, its fauna and flora, is exemplary. His contribution towards his field is definitely a legacy which will last well beyond his years on earth. Many other people, past and present come to mind in terms of their contribution to mankind's development. Their inventions and ideas have changed the way we live and enhanced our quality of life significantly, and this is indeed a living legacy they have left behind, not just for their families but for us all.

Setting up charitable institutions, sponsoring children and older people or participating in voluntary activities to improve lives of those who live in poverty stricken countries definitely classify as true legacies. These actions can change lives and help make this world easier to cope with for those in need.

On a similar note, setting up projects in developing countries with the sole aim of making them financially independent and capable of supporting themselves and their families is a long term legacy. This one has an altruistic beginning and ends up making a difference that goes beyond this lifetime. It might not be materialistic in nature but it turns out to be materialistically beneficial for those who benefit from it and for their generations to come.

To recognise a true legacy, you have to look beyond the microcosm of your own household and see what difference you can make to someone else's life. Material things only have a limited life, but human actions have an outcome that is far reaching and can span generations. If both the material aspect and the generosity of the human spirit are combined, then the spirit of a true legacy emerges and this is when the world can be transformed into a better place for us and our children.