The idea of an ethical will is not modern. “An Ethical will (Hebrew: "Zava'ah") is a document designed to pass ethical values from one generation to the next. Rabbis and Jewish laypeople have continued to write ethical wills during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.” *
Such a document is purely voluntary and it does not distribute wealth or assets. Do not confuse it with a legal will.
A legacy letter can be a way to share your values, blessings, life's lessons, memories and hopes for future generations and to offer your love and forgiveness within your family.
Some recommend sharing your legacy letter before your death, others prefer to make it a part of a legacy, to be passed on after death.
The process of formulating a legacy letter can bring about a sense of a life well-lived.
There is no particular format for such a personalized letter (or journal if you prefer) and in actuality some are not in writing, but rather in a video, using a story-telling format.
The document can be used to pass to your family the lifelong lessons learned, rather than financial assets.
The legacy letter can become part of a family history or a guide to family values and achievements.
When considering the format of a legacy letter, be mindful that technology changes dramatically. If you choose a format (other than a written document), such as video, consider that your recorded document may not be playable on a ‘gadget” in ten years.
So…updating your letter/document is as important as updating/reviewing your will and estate plan periodically.
*Wikipedia
World Working to Preserve Your Wealth and Protect Your Future…in a Constantly Changing
Please read my full Disclaimer and How I Can Help You
Visit my website: www.attorneybarbardalvano.weebly.com for over 275 articles and printable infographics