A life fully lived — until the very last day

I didn’t know Jane Goodall personally, but I’m blessed that my dear friend Rachelle Hansen did — and that she gave me a glimpse into what it was like to be in the presence of such an extraordinary human being.

What I do know is how she impacted humanity and the earth. It’s impossible not to know that.

This morning, I listened to a podcast where Jane was interviewed shortly after her 90th birthday. When asked how old she felt, she replied simply:

Her favorite birthday celebration? Standing on a beach, greeted by 90 dogs. Many of us think of her love for primates — and they were certainly dear to her — but dogs were her greatest companions. Because she traveled more than 300 days a year, she couldn’t have one of her own. That small truth struck me — that even the most inspiring lives include longing and sacrifice.

On October 1, Jane passed away of natural causes in Los Angeles, at the age of 91, while on a speaking tour in the United States.

To live with purpose until your final breath — to spend your last days sharing wisdom and hope — is such a gift. That’s the kind of life I aspire to.

So what did Jane teach us about living with purpose?

• Purpose isn’t about fanfare. It’s about quiet, steady impact — one person, one action, one ripple at a time.
• Compassion fuels courage. Her love for animals, people, and the planet became a lifelong call to action.
• Hope is a discipline. Even when the world seemed broken, she chose to believe in humanity’s capacity to change.
• Presence is power. She reminded us that to “just be” — fully, consciously — is the truest form of wisdom.

Jane Goodall didn’t just study life. She embodied it.

As you move through this week, pause and ask yourself: What’s one small action I can take that reflects the kind of world I want to leave behind?​
Then — take it. Quietly. Purposefully. Fully present.

With deep respect and gratitude,
Tamara

🕊️ “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” — Jane Goodall