When most people think about the legacy they will leave behind, their thoughts often turn to material possessions such as homes, retirement savings, or family heirlooms. Some of the most treasured gifts you can offer your loved ones, however, are not things at all. They are your words, your memories, and your wisdom. With that in mind, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisors explain how adding a “Legacy Letter” to your California estate plan might be a good idea.
What Is a Legacy letter?
A Legacy Letter, sometimes referred to as an ethical will, basically just what it sounds like — a heartfelt personal message intended to pass down your legacy to the people who matter most in your life. It is not a formal legal document, but it holds emotional value that can outlast all the material possessions you pass down to loved ones. Through a Legacy Letter, you can share the principles that guide you, the experiences that shape you, and the love you have carried throughout your life. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, partner, friend, or mentor, writing a Legacy Letter allows you to reflect deeply on your life and offer your voice to future generations in a lasting, meaningful way. Legacy Letters can be directed to anyone with whom you share a deep bond. You might write a single letter to your entire family, or you might choose to create individual letters for children, grandchildren, a partner, or even close friends.
Why You Might Want to Write a Legacy Letter
A Legacy Letter provides an open space for your most genuine thoughts and emotions, providing an opportunity to connect with others outside of life’s formalities or fleeting moments. Through this letter, you can:
- Share your dreams for your children, grandchildren, or other loved ones.
- Pass down lessons you learned from both achievements and hardships.
- Explain the values and beliefs that influenced your life.
- Preserve family history, anecdotes, or traditions that may otherwise fade over time.
- Express love, pride, forgiveness, gratitude, or hope.
What You Might Want to Include in Your California Legacy Letter
There is no single format you must follow when writing a Legacy Letter. Each one is unique, shaped by your voice and your relationships; however, if you are unsure where to begin, some helpful areas to explore as you write include:
- Your Purpose: Start your letter with a brief explanation of why you are writing it. This introduction sets the tone and gives your reader insight into your intention. “I wanted to put into words what I may not always say out loud, how deeply I care for you and the lessons I hope you will carry with you.”
- Your Story: Tell your story and take a moment to reflect on your journey. Where did you come from? What people or moments made a lasting impact? Think about childhood memories, personal turning points, and experiences that helped shape your identity. Share both your successes and your failures because each has a place in your story and holds value.
- Communicate Your Core Values: Think about the personal principles that influenced the decisions you made throughout your life. What mattered most to you? Whether it was honesty, compassion, perseverance, or something else, take the time to explain why those values are important and how they guide you. “Over the years, I have learned that real courage often looks like listening with empathy or choosing kindness in the face of anger.”
- Provide Advice and Encouragement: A Legacy Letter is a chance to speak directly to the hearts of those you love. Consider the wisdom you would have wanted at various stages in your life. What would you tell your younger self? What thoughts would you offer during times of joy or challenge? You might write about relationships, work, parenthood, aging, or dealing with uncertainty. Your words can serve as a compass for others when they need them most.
- Express Love: Perhaps the most powerful part of a legacy letter is the emotional connection it creates. Do not shy away from speaking openly about your affection, pride, or appreciation. Say what you feel, especially if those words are hard to express in daily life. “I hope you always know how much joy you brought into my life. I am proud of who you are and who you are becoming.”
Can We help You Add a Legacy letter to Your California Estate Plan?
For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you are interested in adding a “Legacy Letter” to your California estate plan, contact the experienced Los Angeles estate planning attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisorsby calling (310) 337-7696 to schedule an appointment.
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