What We Leave Behind

“Welcome! We were waiting for you and we’re so happy that you’re here.”
These are the words Mr. Paige used to greet us as we arrived at our hotel in New Orleans last week. I have never met someone so enthusiastic at a front desk and his attitude brought a big smile to my face and ease to my body. We had arrived at our temporary home in Louisiana.

Recently a spiritual teacher introduced the concept of “residue” or being aware of what we leave behind when we leave the scene. Whenever we relate to others, we communicate by what we say, how we say it and the attitude we maintain throughout the encounter. And yes, our attitude comes through even if we think we are covering it up with our words. The spiritual teacher suggested that, after every encounter in person, on the phone or in writing, we pause at the end and ask “What residue did I leave behind?”

This question really stuck with me as I considered the many emails I write, the yoga and meditation classes I teach, and the numerous times during the day that I initiate and respond to prompts from my partner and companion animals at home. What am I leaving in my wake when I write, teach and talk with others? Does what I share truly represent me at my best?

How do you communicate and relate to others throughout your day? Looking back on those encounters, what residue did you leave behind?

This concept really popped for me when I met Mr. Paige. Whether his sunny spirit is natural or more intentional, he gets high marks for being positive, inspiring, supportive, calming and accepting of others. And each time that he or you or I share these uplifting moments, we increase the good vibrations that encircle us all. Let’s all remember to take a peek at what we’re leaving behind!