An ethical will, (often referred to as a legacy letter), is a way to share your values, life lessons, love, hopes and dreams for the future in a letter to your family, friends and community. It can consist of a few paragraphs, a letter or a multiple page document. An ethical will is not a legal document; it does not distribute your material wealth. It is a heartfelt expression of what truly matters most in your life. Ethical wills are not new. References to this tradition are found in many ancient cultures. Today, ethical wills are being written by people of all ages, whether at turning points, special birthdays or challenging life situations. They are usually shared with family and friends while the writer is still alive.
An ethical will may be one of the most cherished and meaningful gifts you can leave to those you care about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why write an Ethical Will/ Legacy Letter?
- We learn a lot about ourselves in the process of writing a legacy letter. It helps us identify what we stand for and what we value most and gives more meaning to our lives
- Helps us create something of true value that will live on after we are gone
- Inspires us to honor people who have made a difference in our lives
- Creates deeper family connections and explains our roots and heritage
- Teaches younger generations how to survive challenges they may face by sharing our own examples of overcoming adversity
- The act of reminiscing, reflecting and writing decreases our anxiety and improves our life satisfaction
- Allows our families and friends to know more about us and understand how much they mean to us
- It shows us that our lives really mattered
What is in an Ethical Will/Legacy Letter?
- A legacy letter reflects the “voice of the heart.” Think of it as a love letter to your family and friends. Every letter is as unique as the person writing it. Historically, ethical wills have contained blessings, personal and spiritual values and burial instructions. Here is a partial list of common themes seen in more modern legacy letters.
- Important personal values and beliefs
- Important spiritual values
- Hopes and blessings for future generations
- Life’s lessons
- Love
- Challenges overcome, forgiveness and gratitude
When do you write an Ethical Will/Legacy Letter?
- On birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, mother’s day, father’s day, family reunions, graduations, retirement, weddings, and births to show love and appreciation and to celebrate peoples’ lives.
- At any age to pay tribute to an elder such as a parent, grandparent, teacher or mentor who has had a deep impact on your life. You are acknowledging the legacy left to you by sharing the inspiration with others.
- At middle age and beyond to translate your life experiences into wisdom, and fulfil the responsibility of passing this wisdom to future generations.
- During critical health challenges – ones that compel you to write the words you have yet to say to those you love.
- At any time the spirit moves you!