We do not inherit the Earth from our Ancestors, we borrow it from our Children.

3 months ago

Plant Trees For Your Grandchildren

Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents,it was loaned to you by your children.We do not inherit the Earth from our Ancestors, we borrow it from our Children. - Native American traditional

Everything you do, and everything you do not do, is your legacy to future generations.

Ecology is important. Thirty years ago, Tampa Bay was polluted and dying. Today, the fish are swarming. A small island near my home is roost for perhaps 2000 birds, including once-endangered pelicans and frigate birds. The eagle in today's picture visited my dock today. That eagles would return to this part of Florida was unimaginable. Few would have thought that Tampa Bay could have recovered, and that recovery has taken decades, but nature is amazingly resilient when we humans stop attacking her.

What you do for your biological descendants is important. The values that you teach your children through your example will be the values that they teach their children through their example.

Today's message is bigger than ecology and bigger than your blood line. EVERYTHING you do, and EVERYTHING you do not do, is your legacy to future generations.

Today's acorns grow into the oak trees of thirty years hence. But what acorns are we sowing today? Imagine what an acorn-sized bit of prejudice or hatred would grow into. Imagine what an acorn-sized bit of pollution can become.

Our legacy to future generations will grow from the acorns of our actions and inactions today in global affairs, energy, ecology, education, and wellness, as well as the personal values we demonstrate to those of this and future generations through our everyday behaviors and attitudes.

*** Book of the day: Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed Jared Diamond's Collapse tells the history of societies that have not paid attention to their future. It is a sobering warning about how small acts of selfishness can cause a fatal collapse of entire civilizations. [I appreciate your accessing our affiliates through our links.]

Further reading: How do You View the World?

Eleanor Roosevelt quote: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

The Paradox Of Living In The Moment - How To Be Happy Today And Prepare For Tomorrow

Jonathan Lockwood Huie (The Philosopher of Happiness) is the author of self-awareness books and a Daily Inspiration and Quote blog and free email.