As we age, we often begin to reflect upon our lives and the legacy we wish to leave behind. While our possessions and accomplishments may fade, our memories and stories can live on through the power of a legacy letter. A Legacy Letter, also known as an ethical will, is an individualized letter that shares a person’s values, beliefs, stories, and life lessons with their loved ones. It is a way to tangibly pass down our legacy and wisdom to younger generations and ensure that our voice will be heard long after we are gone.
Legacy Letters are becoming increasingly popular as more and more seniors realize the value of preserving their stories and passing on their life lessons. Many believe these letters should be considered one of the most important gifts a person can leave behind for their loved ones. In addition, they provide a unique opportunity for older individuals to reflect on their lives, share their experiences, and pass on wisdom to those they care about.
How does one write a Legacy Letter?
There is no right or wrong way to draft a Legacy Letter, but there are some tips for how to get started and ensure the process goes smoothly.
- Start by reflecting upon life events and the legacy that can be left behind.
- View examples, if needed, and select a preferred format, whether it be a traditional letter, a video message, an entire journal, or a scrapbook.
- Consider the letter’s audience and tailor accordingly.
- Ensure the message is honest and authentic, sharing successes, failures, joys, sorrows, hopes, and dreams.
- Focus on how personal values shaped the life path.
- Share life lessons, personal stories, memories, advice, photos, mementos, and keepsakes.
- Edit and revise the letter before printing or preserving it.
Benefits of a Legacy Letter
One of the biggest benefits of writing a Legacy Letter is that it can be a very meaningful and cathartic process. As seniors reflect on their lives and the lessons they have learned, they might find that verbalizing these experiences can help them come to a greater sense of clarity and peace. In addition, Legacy Letters are a great way for the senior population to pass on their values, morals, and beliefs to the younger generations. Finally, these letters can help seniors feel that their lives have purpose and meaning by creating a sense of continuity between the past, present, and future.
In the end, it is most important to simply start writing. By taking the first step and putting pen to paper, seniors can begin to explore their lives and their legacy while creating a powerful and lasting gift for their loved ones.
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By: Emily Peugh
Senior Care Advising Intern at WellPath Partners
Health Science Student, California State University, Long Beach
