Wherever you go, leave love behind.

I want to say this quickly so you don’t get the wrong idea. I’ve been thinking a lot about death and dying lately but it’s all been good. Having just lost two loved ones to this inevitable passage, I can say with joy that the love they both left behind is everlasting, and ever tangible. I’ve said it before and I’m saying it again: Wherever you go, leave love behind.

We all die. Every last one of us.

So while we’re here – while I’m here – I want us to live life with as much love, laughter, appreciation and curiosity as can be. I know that we can’t always be up; that would be weird and even a little creepy. It’s not normal. But as Annie Dillard tells us, How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. Maya Angelou is credited with saying, They may not remember what you said, but they’ll remember how you made them feel. Many other wise people have pronounced similar sentiments. The message is ancient and pervasive. There’s a reason for that – people notice. They always have. Always will.

So, thank you. Thank you for thoughtful conversations, laughter, support, confidence in me, repeated kindnesses, and so much more. Thank you for being you. Thank you for leaving love behind because, in that way, you remain alive in the hearts of all you loved. You have made the world a better place. This truly must be what is meant by immortality.

For the rest of us, remember to love. Love your friends and family as much as you can. Leave it behind with your pets, your neighbors, your community. Give yourself lovingkindness when you need a boost. Leave love everywhere – with your plants, your job, your thoughts – share love in your every breath of your every day. You will make yourself happier, and the world around you becomes a happier place.

Remember, wherever you go, leave love behind.

© 2024 www.megreilly360.com

6/24/2024