The Power of Your Legacy

Along a beach one morning, a woman noticed a gentleman repeatedly picking something up off the ground and throwing it into the water. As their distance lessened, it became obvious the man was tossing starfish. Noticing her quizzical look he explained, “I’m throwing these starfish back into the sea. They washed up during low tide and if I don’t throw them back they’ll die due to lack of oxygen.”

The woman replied, “But there are thousands of starfish here. You can’t possibly save them all!” The man smiled, bent down, and threw another replying, “You’re right, but I made a difference to that one!”

Much of our lives are spent raising families, building careers, and preparing for retirement. We all want to make a difference in the world and be remembered fondly. Are you building a legacy that aligns with the values you most want to express? With thoughtful planning you can leave:

A legacy of provision. Nearly 70 percent of Americans do not have an up-to-date will. That means the majority of people you know have yet to ‘get their financial house in order.’ But an up-to-date estate plan is not only good stewardship of the resources you’ve been given – it also establishes a plan to ensure your loved ones are provided for and any minor children will be raised by the guardian of your choosing. Your legacy can provide protection, provision, and peace.

A legacy of love. Many people are incorporating the idea of an “ethical will” into their estate planning. An ethical will passes along the riches of the heart. Personal letters, special family stories, affirmations of love, and your own life stories make an ethical will a rich and enduring gift.

A legacy of generosity. What causes and ministries have you felt connected to throughout your life? Would you consider leaving them a gift in your will? Planning a legacy gift to a charitable organization is a powerful way to communicate your values and inspire loved ones to think about how they may practice generosity in their lives too.

The book of Proverbs states, “a good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.”
May we all endeavor to build a legacy that will long outlive us.