How my actions have a lasting impact on others...

Most often our actions depend on one factor, ourselves! This overriding concern of what everything means in relation to us, determines how we live our lives.

To understand our responses, we need to realize that we are essentially several personalities. Startling though this may seem, it is quite natural for us to be loving parent, stern boss, competitive sibling, caring friend, stubborn child, etc. This 'role playing' is not duplicity, but rather has the effect of confusing us as to our real persona.

Despite all the 'hats' that we wear as we go through life, we need to examine the impact we are having on others within our sphere of influence. Take the role of parent and the corresponding impact on your children. Would you have your child say that they have learned from you the path that they should follow, or rather, would you have it that they have learned from you the path that they should avoid?

Do not be so self-absorbed that you disregard the example that you are portraying. Be mindful of the impact that your actions may have on those who look to you as a role model. Be aware that your behavior is your legacy that has the power to impact those who learn from you.