When one leaves...

Recently, some colleagues left the organisation... coupled with the personal experiences I had (ok, three times in my almost 20 years of teaching career), here a summary of my reflections:

When individuals leave an organisation, they have a choice to
(1) leave behind excellent work that uphold good values & others continue to hold high regards and respect them (greatly) for the great things they did, remember their contributions and, what's more, what they did that generate more good stuff for the organisation to thrive.
OR
(2) create damages and disappointments (and even let others felt betrayed) because they choose not continue to uphold the expected professional integrity for some reasons. Look at it again, it's not too late to learn the 'true' self of these individuals. It becomes good lessons for others, but would certainly tarnish one's reputation into thin air. Remember, Steven Covey cautioned us that it's not easy to build the emotional bank, but it could be gone overnight for some unwise choices?

What prompts an individual to make either of the choices?
For those who choose #1, it's an obvious reflection of one's qualities! They look beyond self, but the entire ecosystem, and certainly look into creating positive impact for others, making the world a better place.

As of those who choose #2, I would very much like to attribute it to one's maturity (which many a time may not the case, though it would be a good excuse) - 'cos that gives the room for improvement (subsequently) - for the better. Nevertheless, there are also individuals who are blinded by some self-generated hatreds & dis-satisfactions (ok, there could be better choice of words; however, that's the best I could find in my limited vocabulary). It's sad as it's about them blowing up their self-centredness which does nobody good. To think further, what would their love ones think of their actions if they were respected as role models?

I guess, we should always remember that the world is small... good "things" will "travel" far & would generate more good things... and damage made is not always contained within the perceived parameter, it travels far too, and of course would generate other kinds of effects and impact.

So, we have a choice, and we have to own the choice :)
Also, remember that our world is not just ourselves and the few individuals; it's much bigger than we think ;)