As the holiday season approaches, many of us naturally reflect on what truly matters in life. While estate planning often focuses on distributing assets and minimizing taxes, it can—and should—go much deeper. A well-rounded estate plan doesn’t just protect your finances; it ensures that your values, stories, and lessons endure for generations to come.
At Sechler Law Firm, we believe in helping our clients build legacies that extend far beyond wealth. This philosophy is woven into everything we do, particularly through our Red Wagon Club Membership, which offers clients ongoing support after they’ve created their estate plans.
One of the most meaningful benefits of this membership is our Digital Legacy Workshop, a space where we encourage clients to record and preserve their life stories. These stories—shared through videos or letters—become treasures for children and grandchildren, offering insight into who you are, what you value, and the experiences that shaped your life.
Your Most Valuable Assets Aren’t in Your Bank Account
While financial security is essential, the most cherished inheritances often aren’t monetary. Values, wisdom, and personal history are the true legacies that resonate across generations. Here are ways to enrich your estate plan with the intangible assets that matter most:
1. Create an Ethical Will or Legacy Letter
An ethical will is a heartfelt document that shares your values, life lessons, and hopes for your loved ones. It can include:
- Stories that shaped your life.
- Traditions you want preserved.
- Gratitude for those who’ve influenced you.
These letters often mean as much, if not more, to your family than the material inheritance you leave behind.
2. Record Your Family’s Story
Your story is one of the most precious gifts you can pass down. At our Digital Legacy Workshop, we provide a framework with prompts and questions to help you share meaningful anecdotes. We also guide you on how to store these recordings securely so they can be enjoyed for generations.
Additionally, consider:
- Documenting cherished family recipes and the stories behind them.
- Adding descriptions to family photographs to capture their significance.
- Recording video messages to share your thoughts, memories, and advice.
3. Build a Legacy of Giving
Charitable giving is a powerful way to reflect your values in your estate plan. Consider:
- Establishing a scholarship fund in your family’s name.
- Creating a donor-advised fund or family foundation.
- Setting up trusts that encourage specific values, like education or community service.
Making It Personal
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to leaving a legacy. The key is authenticity. Whether through written letters, video recordings, charitable giving, or preserved family traditions, your legacy should reflect what matters most to you.
A Gift for Future Generations
By documenting your values and expressing gratitude, you’re giving your loved ones a priceless gift—a window into your heart and life. This Thanksgiving season, consider incorporating this deeper layer of legacy planning into your estate plan.
Want to explore how to create a meaningful legacy that goes beyond wealth? Contact us to learn more about our Digital Legacy Workshop that we offer to our Red Wagon Club Members. You will need to create an estate plan with us to be able to join the Red Wagon Club. Let’s ensure your legacy reflects not just your assets, but the love and lessons you want to pass on.
