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Our first two conversations in the month of October have been on our spiritual inheritance and on having a sense of purpose. The conversation on inheritance was in the context of what we receive – from those who influence us. The chat on purpose was about the how and why of having a sense of purpose and how it empowers us. I believe the conversations about inheritance and purpose would not be complete without a conversation about our legacy – in the context of what we create, not for ourselves – but, to leave behind.

I think most people have this innate sense, if not a driving desire, to leave the world in a better place than how they find it. This driving purpose influences a lot of the creative arts, science, inventions and, to some extent, discovery and exploration. As a scientist, folks often ask me – why do we really need to go to Mars? It is a good question. One could answer – well, we need to go there because it’s there. Of course, the rational answer could be that the human need for exploration is what has led to the widening of our horizons over the centuries. And we are perhaps running out of things to explore, here on earth 🙂

But I digress. The reason I mention exploration is that it is perhaps one key to the subject of legacy. We may need to explore, connect with, and understand our inheritance (the values, culture and beliefs that were imbued in us) in order to arrive at a sense of purpose. Once we arrive at purpose, what moves us forward to action? Surely, it cannot be restricted to a simple desire to make ends meet and live a comfortable life. Once we have accomplished that simple desire, what then?

It is perhaps then we have explored enough of the outside that we explore within. The great journey begins as we try and identify with our true legacy – that which derives from our heart and spirit. The more we explore the true reasons behind why we do what we do, the more our purpose becomes clear, and the closer we come to performing meaning-ful acts and actions. We position ourselves to create a living legacy.

Do you think about your legacy – what you will leave behind or be remembered for? What is the connection between legacy and fame? Or is ‘being remembered’ really not that important to you, as long as you are living a life of purpose in the here and now? How can we really leave a legacy beyond the physical realm? Or can we? What do you think your true legacy is going to be? Is it tangible or intangible?

If you have read this far, and would like to explore this topic some more, I invite you to join the #SpiritChat community on Sunday October 21st at 9am ET / 2pm UK / 6:30 India. Come share your legacy with us – or discover how you can create a meaningful one with heart and spirit.

Kumud

Update: Here is the html Transcript for the chat. Here is the pdf version for download. Also see the questions asked during the live chat on our topic of legacy. Enjoy!

Should we begin? Q1. In a personal context, what does the phrase "leaving a legacy" mean to you? #SpiritChat 

Q2. Is creating a legacy important to you? Why or why not? #SpiritChat 

Q3. A desire to leave a legacy satisfies the ego, not the spirit. Agree or disagree? Why? #SpiritChat 

Q4. What is the connection between fame and/or wealth - and legacy? #SpiritChat

Q5. How can our spiritual practice help us create a legacy - living or otherwise?  #SpiritChat  

Q6. Once created, what actions do we need to take to preserve our legacy? #SpiritChat 

Q7. What do you think your legacy will be (tangible or intangible)? Do share. #SpiritChat

Final Q8. What actions can we take in the coming week to enrich our legacy? #SpiritChat