The Commonwealth Games has recently ended in Birmingham.  I didn’t go but, by all accounts, it was a wonderful event, enjoyed by the one and half million spectators who did.  I tuned into a bit of the commentary on TV.  There seemed to be little talk about the various sporting events taking place; a lot of talk about the legacy that the Games must leave.

It was the same with the Women’s Euros.  A wonderful achievement for the Lionesses, but what’s the legacy?

And it is not just sport.  Land artist James Brunt has just completed a spectacular mandala design in Knowsley’s Halewood Park.  It is the size of one and a half football pitches.  His thoughts upon completion: “I hopes it leaves a legacy.”  Not too likely given that the grass will grow back and cover it in about four weeks.

Why must everything have to leave a legacy?  Why can’t we just enjoy a spectacle for what it is and simply move on?  Must we squeeze every last drop out of the tube of enjoyment, until it has run completely dry?

We are still fretting about the legacy of London 2012.

Let it go.  God forbid that I should be someone to advocate spontaneity but, just enjoy the moment.  The best legacy is happy memories.

© Simon Turner-Tree

Simon Turner-Tree wants this article to leave no legacy.
(Rest assured about that. (Ed.))