bhaskar saikia

Many believe that life is a cycle that begins and ends at zero—that we arrive with nothing and depart the same way.

This notion, often accepted without question, is deeply flawed.

While it may hold a degree of truth for the majority, it is far from universal. Some individuals live lives filled with remarkable achievements, leaving behind legacies that endure long after they are gone.

How can we say their lives amounted to nothing? Why do we still speak of Steve Jobs, Napoleon or Leonardo da Vinci? They have long since passed, yet their contributions continue to shape the world. Their stories stand as undeniable proof that life is not a mere sum of zero.

If a person is forgotten by society after their passing, it is likely they did not fully embrace their potential, letting their time on Earth slip away without impact. Conversely, those who leave behind a lasting legacy are remembered for their remarkable deeds—sometimes for their greatness, and at times for their notoriety.

So why do most people’s names fade with time?

What prevents them from carving their place in history?

In John Carter (of Mars), Captain John Carter offers simple but powerful advice to his nephew: “Take up a cause, fall in love; write a book.”

“Take up a cause, fall in love; write a book.”

This quote captures the essence of a purposeful life. Yet, most people, if they act on any part of this advice, only fall in love—and often, they do so with hesitation, fearing loss. But true love is fearless; it grants freedom. Even so, love alone does not ensure a lasting legacy.

Taking up a cause gives life direction. It fuels passion, drives change, and connects us to something greater than ourselves.

Writing a book, on the other hand, solidifies our thoughts, experiences, and wisdom in a form that outlives us. A book is a legacy—one that can bridge generations and preserve our essence in the annals of human history.

I firmly believe that everyone has a story worth sharing. Whether it is an account of personal struggles, lessons learned or a creative exploration of the human experience, each person has something valuable to contribute. And what better way to leave a mark than through the power of the written word?

So, take up a cause. Fall in love. Write a book.

Ensure that your name and your story continue to inspire long after you are gone.