How do I know if I'm building a legacy or just feeding my ego?

Rabia al-Adawiyya teaches us something radical: she gave away everything she owned and refused payment for her spiritual work. Not because she was poor, but because she wanted zero transaction between herself and God. So here's the honest mirror: ask yourself who benefits most from what you're building. If it requires your name on it, your face attached, your constant visibility—that's a clue. Real legacy often works quietly. It feeds others without needing applause. A mother's kindness that shapes her child's entire moral compass. A teacher whose lessons echo through generations of students who never knew her name. A rule you changed that now helps thousands invisibly. The ego wants to be remembered. Legacy wants to be useful. The hardest part? They can coexist in the same action. You can build something meaningful AND want credit for it. That's human. The question isn't purity—it's proportion. If you removed your name tomorrow, would the work still matter? If yes, you're onto something real.