16. Leave something good when you’re gone
“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in” - Greek Proverb
I was listening to a talk at Church on Sunday and it challenged me deeply as I found myself looking to my life and realising I was having somewhat selfish motivations behind my actions.
Doing things for my glory, to get money, and ultimately to show off.
But guess what, that won’t last.
The mindset has to be shifted to helping others and the next generation.
Why; because one, it is the good thing to do, two, it changes us in the process.
Our heart perspective is moved through the selfless service of others.
There are three things to consider when thinking about the future:
Vision- what is our idea, what do we called to? This may not come to fruition in our lifetime but we have to be okay with that and make the actionable steps to build on this vision.
Opportunity- we need to actually use the time and opportunity we have. Work the skills we have acquired. Teach and pass on. That leaves a message way beyond you as an individual.
Resources- using finances well. Give willingly, serve your purpose, recognise that it’s all finite so plant seeds for others now.
In an immediacy culture, it’s very hard to often think long-term and delay gratification. Dream about what you can do with the time you are blessed with, and the legacy you can leave behind- don’t stop till you get there. There’s nothing stopping you!