#5. What Will You Leave Behind?

It’s not what we accumulate that defines our legacy, but what we put inside others.

Having Everything and Nothing

We often measure success by what we accumulate—material possessions, achievements, accolades. But sometimes, in moments of profound loss, when you’re holding someone’s hand as they take their last breath, life strips everything away and reveals a truth: you take absolutely nothing with you, but you leave so much behind.

When my Mum passed away last week, she was surrounded by loved ones, and we shared the quotes she used to send. When she took her last breath, I was lying in the bed next to her. Everything seemed so clear at that moment—no house, bank account, or possession mattered. It was only about what she had left behind in the hearts of those who knew her.

Here are just a few of the beautiful words from people whose lives she touched quietly:

“I, too, have wonderful memories of living across the road from you all, contracting mumps, I think, and watching telly upstairs. Visiting the chemist, and your mum always remembered us all by name.”

?It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of life—chasing financial security, status, and tangible things that make us feel like we’ve "made it." We accumulate, work tirelessly, and fill our lives with stuff. At the same time, some of us wrestle with an inner emptiness that no material possessions can fill. No matter how much we own, nothing can mend a broken heart or fill a soul searching for meaning.

“She was always such a beautiful lady and raised a beautiful family. It is lovely to think she is with Francesca now. All my love to you.”

My Mum left behind everything that matters. The lives she touched, the memories she created, and the love she shared.        

This has been a powerful reminder for me, and I hope it resonates with you, too: It’s not what we accumulate that defines our legacy, but what we put inside others. Ultimately, it’s not about the possessions we leave behind; it’s about the moments we shared, the love we gave, and the lives we touched. Lying next to my Mum in those final moments, I realised that what truly endures isn’t what we hold in our hands but what we leave in the hearts of others. What are you leaving behind?

Peace, love, support, strength, chaos, lawsuits, stress, and conflict?

Reflection

As you go about your day, I encourage you to take a moment and reflect on what truly matters. What are you spending your time and energy on? Having somewhere to live and something to eat matters, but a bigger house or car will not be able to wipe your brow, hold your hand, stand around your bed and share your life as you take your last breath.

Ultimately, we have everything within us to create a meaningful legacy. And that is worth far more than anything money can buy.

What will you leave behind??

"When we were going through life challenges, she was our companion & cheerleader.? Some of the lines we found when scrolling through very recent texts from her capture this:?

·????? This is a big mountain to climb- but we are here with you.

·????? Our arms are around you.

·????? Never give up- things can happen

·????? And her favourite line (which she stole from Winston Churchill). If You’re Going through hell, Keep going".

Thank you for reading. If this message resonates with you, feel free to share it with others who may benefit.

Selena

#Legacy #MeaningfulLife #LossAndReflection #GivingBack #LifeLessons

?