The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy

The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy. – Kalu Kalu (unable to find Bio info – anyone?)

The Grinch reading to kids? Yes, that's what it says.

What does that mean?
This quote talks about motivation. If your motivation directed inward, to do things for your own benefit, they will go away when you are gone. Think of all the times people collected art, statues or other ancient artifacts. Have you heard of them? Do you know who owned the Mona Lisa before it ended up the Louvre?

If, however, your motivation is directed outward, to do things for the benefit of others, the quotes says, it will remain forever as your legacy. The art, statues and other ancient artifacts we are familiar with are all in museums, for everyone to see, enjoy and learn from. The Mona Lisa is famous for it’s beauty, and the Louvre is famous as the home of the Mona Lisa.

Why is altruism important?  
Altruism is defined at theFreeDictionary.com as being: “Unselfish concern for the welfare of others; selflessness.” This is at the heart of this quote. You are unselfishly doing something for the benefit others. Receiving a reward, whether it be in money or in publicity, is not your goal. Your goal is helping others, and if something nice happens to you, that’s a bonus.

I have found, as have most of the people with whom I have spoken, that focusing on others can, on occasion, result in a wonderful benefit for you. Even if nothing else good happens to you when you help others, you still get a warm feeling and peace of mind from your effort. That, to me, is worth quite a bit more than fame and fortune. How about you?

Where can I apply this in my life?
For those with family, doing for them would be the obvious starting point. At some age, your parents may need your help. My uncle put an addition on his house so he could care for his ageing mother. Perhaps they only need someone to stop by and clean once a week. Think of it as payback for all the years they cleaned up after you. 8)

If you have kids (or grand kids), you already know the true meaning of this quote, don’t you? Everything you do to help them becomes part of your legacy, whether it’s spending time with them, teaching them, even when you discipline them, you are forming their future, which is your legacy.

But what about others, for those who either don’t have family or have already taken care of that part of their lives? Check with the local houses of worship to see what kinds of assistance programs they are familiar with (or run) and see what you can do to help.

If our local food bank is any indicator, there’s a big need there. Bring some food, stop by to lend a hand or drop off some cash. This can be the ultimate feel-good move by you, as almost no one will know that you helped. But you will know and you will feel very good about having helped, right?

Have you ever served breakfast at a food kitchen or other food source for homeless or truly down-on-their-luck people? That can be a very moving experience, because you get to look at the people you’re helping, and they can see you. Some are bitter, but most are quite grateful, if a little shy.

Even something as simple as going to the local library and volunteering to read books to visiting groups of children or shut-ins. Is that something you could do? My son is starting to do that, and is quite excited to start contributing to society and the kids.

What else can you do? What are some of your passions? Grab some paper and write down the three ways you like to help others. Take a moment and think about each in turn. Are they tied to a certain time of year, or are they something you can do all year long? Which is nearest and dearest to your heart or would help the most people?

Select the one you like the best, and do a little research. Where is the closest local branch? How do you get in touch and offer your services? Take a little time, figure out how much time, talent and treasure you can devote to this task. Make a preliminary plan, if you’re so inclined.

Now take action. Make a decision and do something. Get ready and get busy! Make a phone call, make an appointment, get started in some way, shape, or form. Don’t let the future catch you napping. Help others for nothing more than the good feeling you get inside.

From: Twitter, @iheartquotes
confirmed at : http://www.thequotefactory.com/quote-by/kalu-kalu/the-things-you-do-for-yourself/5048
Photo by Park County Library System