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    To Be or Not To Be

    Being Frank

    We’ve created a world of material dependencies that strays far off course from where we should be. We’re the only species that creates such a complex societal structure that depends on myriad things having nothing to do with our survival, comfort, or happiness. We’ve convinced ourselves that our material stuff is what matters most in this world, and we have to do everything we can to maintain, exhibit, or expand our possessions during each day of our lives. Interesting how we refer to them as trappings or possessions. Good descriptive nouns, but we would probably be better served using them as verbs.

    If you find yourself under an inordinate amount of weight, all you have to do is let go. The day we leave this world, the vast majority (if not all) of our possessions will be meaningless to anyone else. The only assets that will be of value to those whom we love are the memories shared, the lessons taught, the guidance provided, and the love given unconditionally.

    I made this missive short so you could take a moment now to decide how you wish to be remembered: As the person who burdened others with chattel or blessed them with choices or insights for the betterment of their lives?

    6 responses to “To Be or Not To Be”

    1. sharongoodenow Avatar
      sharongoodenow

      I luuvvee this:

      “The only assets that will be of value to those whom we love are the memories shared, the lessons taught, the guidance provided, and the love given unconditionally.”

      Should be food for thought EVERY day.

      Reply
      1. Being Frank Avatar
        Being Frank

        Sharon – thank you so much for that insight! To borrow from an old expression, from your mouth to everyone’s ears. ??

        Reply
    2. chaspierro42 Avatar
      chaspierro42

      SHORT, MAYBE! BUT VERY SWEET! Again, TRUTH remains Mighty above all other things. I have been giving some thought recently regarding my legacy, and sadly Tempus fugit, so, as I remain on the mend I try to keep busy with doing at least one caring thing eachday for another human in need. Thanks much

      Chas

      .

      Reply
      1. Being Frank Avatar
        Being Frank

        Chas – thank you so much for taking the time to write; I know how challenging things have been for you as of late. The succinct yet powerful nature of the actions behind your legacy speak volumes to the ripples of positivity you’ve created throughout your life. Time indeed is fleeting, but you’ve never been one to allow it to overtake the rudder. Stay the course and focus on your health; it’s the best gift you can give all of us who love you. Thanks again for writing!

        Reply
    3. Maria Potter Avatar
      Maria Potter


      Frank, the way you’ve framed our relationship with material things is painfully true. We often trap ourselves with our possessions, believing they define us or give us worth. But at the end of the day, it’s the intangible—the memories, the love, the lessons, the humanity—that truly matter, that leave a lasting imprint on the hearts of those we care about.

      You asked how I would like to be remembered. I want my legacy to be one of love and light, of offering a hand when it’s needed, and of creating connections that uplift and inspire. If I can leave this world having made a difference in even one person’s life, then I’ll know I’ve lived well. 

      Reply
      1. Being Frank Avatar
        Being Frank

        Maria, thank you for sharing your thoughts. I’m at a stage right now where I have to make decisions regarding the fate of cherished possessions, and I’m fraught with pain and sadness. For me, every item is a precious gift; a memory imbued with so much love and connection. But in the end, that’s what they represent to me – no one else. And those emotions, memories, and love that are imprinted on these items wear them by the grace of the love felt for the person for whom they held a special connection. Those gifts are intangible, indelible, and imprinted in my psyche; and that’s all I need to stay focused on. But the obscene manner in which companies ascribe importance to all manner of transitory items is truly reprehensible. We’re made to measure our value based on labels instead of beliefs; the pretentiousness of items instead of the value of one’s honor or dignity. I’m surprised we haven’t revived the burial ceremonies of the ancient Egyptians, burying ourselves with every manner of possessions for the afterlife. Then again, if we did, what would we leave behind to impress others? I love your legacy; making a positive change in the life of one human being is the greatest accomplishment we can ever hope for. Thank you again for the wonderful insights.

        Reply

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