The Legacy We Leave Behind: The Manifesto

When we think about the state of the world—however heart-wrenching it is to observe the surrounding chaos—it’s not difficult to believe that war still rages in other countries, when so many individuals in our modern world are at war with themselves and those closest to them. How can we expect wars to cease when, in our own backyards, we struggle to be peaceful and kind with our own neighbours? It has become common to blame others for our misery without cultivating the ability to look within and take responsibility for our own lives and actions. How can we possibly offer to others what we have not yet learned to offer ourselves? Can we offer kindness and compassion if we haven’t learned to cultivate them within?

At times, it feels as though the world we live in is broken—that, as a humanity, we are lost. Perhaps this feeling of brokenness and loss stems from the fact that we have drifted away from what is most essential.

What is most essential, for us, is… Learning to love ourselves and others unconditionally. Creating intimacy and safety in our relationships by connecting from a place of sincerity, authenticity and non-judgement. Reconnecting to our breathing bodies and experiencing the present moment with awareness and aliveness. Embodying our interconnectedness with the natural world and offering others the respect that all living beings deserve—regardless of our differences in beliefs. Embracing the nuances of the human experience and human expression—from the ecstatic to the deeply uncomfortable emotions… These are some of the things that give life meaning. And yet, they feel so far from our collective reality—so distant from what has become the modern standard for “being alive.”

If there’s one thing we know deep within our souls, it’s this: if we hope for more peace in the world, we must first learn to be at peace with ourselves. We must come home to our being and heal. Heal from the false beliefs and illusions we’ve picked up along our precious journey. Heal and remember that we are all inherently worthy of rest, love, and happiness. We were all born with a desire to love and be loved. This is the kind of healing that allows us to become whole again—and remember the kind of existence we want to lead. But we must be willing and courageous enough to undertake this kind of revolution. It is a revolution that makes us question what we’ve always known. It asks us to step off the beaten path, to explore new territory, and to discover our own personal truths. It calls us to challenge the status quo and redefine the kind of world we want to live in. It’s the kind of revolution which asks us to reclaim responsibility for our own life, well-being, and our own happiness. In a world where all but this is encouraged, we—who feel called to carve out a new way—will undoubtedly face obstacles. But we will be guided by this question: what is the legacy we want to leave behind?

A heartfelt interaction with a dear friend in November 2023 sparked this inner conversation. After not seeing each other for a few years, it was deeply touching to feel how strong the connection remained, despite the time and physical distance. It nourished the inquiry: what do we leave behind when we leave our bodies—when we depart from this earthly experience?

This question has led to the deeper understanding that all we ever get to do is leave a loving trace on the heart of another. It is like a warm blanket that comforts us—both in our brightest and darkest moments. We may leave behind a plethora of physical belongings after we are gone, but what memory do we want to remain as our legacy? What kind of markings do we want to imprint on the hearts of those we have known and loved—even if we were to only remain strangers in this life?

If our daily thoughts, words and actions are opportunities to leave marks of love—then let it be so. Let us leave evidence of love on this path, imprinted on the hearts we get to touch and know.

Let us feel, in the depths of our bones, the weight of every thought, every spoken word, every action carried forth.

Let us remember—again and again, especially when we become forgetful or confused—that our hearts are our greatest offering, and that the way that we wield it in this life will be our most important legacy.

This is our answer.

What will yours be?