Legacy Is An Illusion

I read a LinkedIn post from a well known bank this morning about leaving a legacy with an art collection. It was labeled a "Private Bank", which the designation banks give to whales with a lot of money they are trying to attract as clients. It occurred to me that, since we all will die, and, in a few years or a hundred years, or a thousand years, all our art and money and every person we ever knew will be forgotten. So, what exactly does leaving a legacy mean? In my experience, any company or person or service who talks to you about how they can help you leave a "legacy" is usually trying to sell you something. So, if you want to do something worthwhile, take the money you are spending on art or whatever, and use it while you are alive to improve the daily living of someone who needs it to experience security or joy in their life. Building a legacy is an illusion, and is really a selfish endeavor. Make art if you are able, for the enjoyment of it, or to bring enjoyment to others. Buy art if you enjoy it; not because it will increase in monetary value. Happiness through acquisition is an illusion. You don't "own" anything. This is not an indictment of capitalism, which is the best system I know to encourage each individual to find their own happiness. Acquisition by a State or Government is just another illusion that robs the individual of the means to find happiness. You control your happiness. Not someone selling you a legacy. Not a Government taking control of your choices. Now, turn down the sellers of legacy, and make some happiness for yourself and those nearest to you.