(Photo courtesy of Mike Scheid)
At my elder age, I have been giving a good deal of thought as to what I might leave my children. The first thing you are probably thinking is money and/or property. Where possible, that might be a big topic, but there is so much else to consider. Besides, many may not have much in the way of money or property to leave. I feel that in a healthy family, money and property would be secondary.
Yes, leaving a legacy for your children involves more than just material possessions. It encompasses values, wisdom, and a sense of guidance that can shape their character and lives. Here are ten things to consider leaving for your children:
- Unconditional Love: The most profound and lasting gift you can leave your children is a foundation of unconditional love. Show them that your love is unwavering, regardless of their choices or circumstances. This emotional security becomes a lifelong anchor for their well-being. Do you encourage and recognize, or are you apt to criticize? If you haven’t verbalized your love to your children, could you? Would you? When?
- Values and Morals: Share with your children the values and morals that have guided your own life. Whether it’s honesty, kindness, or perseverance, instilling a moral compass provides them with a roadmap for navigating life’s challenges. We either set an example to follow or not to follow. What have you modeled?
- Education and Knowledge: Encourage a love for learning and curiosity. Leave behind a legacy of education by fostering an environment that values knowledge. This could include a library of books, family stories, or even financial support for their education. Have you encouraged a growth mindset?
- Financial Wisdom: Pass on financial wisdom to equip your children with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of money management. This might involve teaching them about budgeting, saving, spending, investing, gifting, and the importance of financial responsibility.
- Resilience and Perseverance: Life is filled with ups and downs. Share your experiences of overcoming challenges and the importance of resilience. Leave them with the understanding that setbacks are a natural part of life, and what matters most is the ability to persevere. Again, what have you modeled? Have you played the giver or the taker. Have you been the martyr or the hero? Have you demonstrate the freedom to fail, but learn?
- Health and Well-being: Leave your children a legacy of health and well-being by instilling healthy habits. This could involve passing on family recipes, encouraging regular exercise, and a healthy diet as well as emphasizing the importance of overall mental, emotional, and physical health.
- A Sense of Identity and Heritage: Help your children understand their roots and cultural heritage. Share stories about your family’s history, traditions, and values. This connection to their identity can provide a sense of belonging and purpose. Do you exemplify a tolerance for others?
- Environmental Responsibility: In a world facing environmental challenges, leave your children with a legacy of environmental responsibility. Instill in them a deep respect for nature and the importance of sustainable living practices and a care for others.
- A Safe and Supportive Home: Create a home environment that is a sanctuary for your children. A place where they feel safe, supported, and loved. This sense of security becomes a touchstone throughout their lives. Do your children love or fear you? Do they respect you?
- Memories and Traditions: Leave behind a collection of cherished memories and traditions. These might be family rituals, holiday celebrations, or shared experiences such as vacations or outings, hobbies, or sports that create a strong sense of family identity and unity.
Remember, the most enduring legacy is the intangible and invaluable influence you have on your children’s lives. By imparting love, values, and wisdom, you contribute to their personal growth and equip them to face the world with resilience and compassion. One last point, if you are like me and most others, as you read this list you may have noticed some areas for improvement. It is never too late to finish strong!
