Richard G (@richardg11)
Back in March, the late Jane Goodall recorded an interview knowing it wouldn’t be made public until after her passing. It was for a new Netflix documentary series called “Famous Last Words,” designed to capture the final reflections of influential cultural icons. The interview took place on a quiet, empty stage with automated cameras, so only Jane and the interviewer, Brad Falchuk, knew what was said until the moment of her death. This was Jane Goodall’s parting message to the world: “From where I am now, I look back over my life and the world I’m leaving behind. What is the message I want to share? It’s this: everyone has a role, even if you haven’t found yours yet. Your life matters, and you are here for a purpose. I hope that purpose will become clearer as you move through your days. Even if you never quite find that role, your life still counts, and every day you live, you make a difference. The difference you make is your choice. “We are connected to the natural world. Even in dark times, there is hope. Don’t lose it. Losing hope leads to apathy and inaction. If you want to protect the beauty that remains on this planet — to safeguard it for future generations, your grandchildren and beyond — think about the choices you make each day. When multiplied across millions and billions of people, even small acts can spark immense change. I believe life on Earth is just one part of a bigger journey. Consciousness continues beyond death. “I can’t share what lies beyond from where I am. That’s not for me to say. But know this: the way you live your life here influences what awaits after. Above all, remember that while you’re here on Earth, you are part of a delicate balance with nature. We rely on clean air, water, food, clothing — all from the natural world. But as we lose ecosystems and face worsening climate change and biodiversity loss, we must do everything we can to leave a better world for children living today and those to come. You have the power to make a difference. Don’t give up. There is a future. Do your best on this beautiful planet that I now watch over. God bless you all.” Lately, I haven’t been feeling all that hopeful about the state of the world. I’ve also been struggling with a sense of being untethered—unsure of what I’m meant to be doing. The feeling of despair seems common for most decent people these days. Like so many, I’m managing as best as I can, but words like Jane Goodall’s give me a lift. They remind me I’m not alone. They remind me that none of us is solely responsible for solving every problem or defeating every challenge in one grand act. Instead, we are billions of individuals who may feel small but, together, might effect change if we simply strive to be better and do what we can, however small. They remind me that even when we can’t control everything, we can control how we act. So, thank you, Jane Goodall. Thank you for offering a spark of hope and grace in a world that often feels anything but graceful.
