What do we leave for posterity?

Some stories, stuff made, a few worthy possessions. 
We leave a few gems, a few things worth holding onto.
We leave memories, and pictures, and special recipes no one else had.

Mostly we leave the impact of love.
It's love that impacts people's lives, that changes them.
It's love that makes the stories meaningful,
that makes the possessions valuable.  

Love compels us to seek out the stories,
to rummage through the pile,
to hold on.

Love is our last testament. 

Heir to the Buddhas.

Should bodhicitta come to birth

In those who suffer, chained in the prison of samsara,

In an instant they are called the children of the Sugatas,

Revered by all the world, by gods and humankind.

~Shantideva

I know your situation is tough.  

I know the burden is heavy and the chances seem slim.  

The moment you say, "Enough is enough, I am very fortunate and I must act on it."  

The moment you take your stand, 

not only for your own benefit, but for the benefit of all beings, 

at that moment you become an heir to the Buddhas.  

You become their child and their master, 

for even the Buddhas are awed by those who give rise to bodhicitta.

Lineage.

Lineage is a legacy available to you,
one that you can contribute to. 

Your practice is your opportunity, it is the doorway.  By entering it you contribute to your legacy and the legacy of the lineage.

You're not the first, and hopefully you are not the last.