Legacy

The creator of the GA chalice lights the flame at General Assembly 2012.
The creator of the GA chalice lights the flame at General Assembly 2012.
What kind of legacy will we leave, both tangible and intangible? Will we be remembered for our music? art? sense of humor? love of life? care and compassion? What ethical commitments and values will we pass on? What plans do we have for our tangible assets, including financial resources? What role do our Unitarian Universalist values and faith play in how we shape a legacy?
Leaving an ethical will is a practice that comes to us from the Jewish tradition. Preparing an ethical will is a way to tell loved ones what lessons you have learned along the way in your life, the ethical, spiritual, and religious values that you have honored and upheld, and the wisdom you want to pass along to those that will follow. While not legally binding, it is a deeply personal statement that allows others to understand more fully the legacy you leave behind. While in the past an ethical will was a written document, today people are experimenting with video, audio, and other means of creating one. Here are some resources to help you find out more and create your own ethical will:
Among the many decisions older adults need to make is how to designate future recipients of their financial resources. It is important to consult with a trusted financial advisor and attorney about the particulars of writing a legal will. In addition, you may want to consider how a legacy gift to your faith community or to another organization that embodies your values can allow that which you value to continue to thrive after you die.