Our impact on the world is no more, in the long run, than footprints in the sand. Unique to us, but usually very much like other people's.

Nothing is permanent. Everything that is seen is impermanent. Everything that is felt is impermanent. Thoughts are impermanent. In Buddhism this is anicca.

Footprints are never perfect, either. The best we can hope for is to make good footprints. Ones that make a positive impression before they are washed away forever.