From Rome with Love: Living Your Legacy Today
Visiting Rome has been a dream of mine ever since I sat in my high school history class, completely fascinated by stories of ancient civilizations, stunning architecture, and the rich tapestry of life that has shaped our modern world. So, when I finally had the chance to go, it was nothing short of incredible.
One of the highlights of my trip was learning about the Capuchin Crypt, a series of small chapels beneath the church of Santa Maria, which holds the bones of nearly 3,700 friars. A plaque there reads, “What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be.” This powerful message lingered with me throughout the trip, reminding me of life’s brevity and the legacy we leave behind.
As an estate planning attorney, this concept is close to my heart. Estate planning isn’t just about what happens when we’re gone; it’s about living your legacy right now. Here are some concrete steps you can take to begin living—and protecting—your legacy today:
1. Define Your Core Values and Priorities
Estate planning begins with understanding what’s most important to you. Take time to reflect on your core values, your family, and the causes you care about. A good estate plan doesn’t just protect assets—it ensures that the things that matter most to you are safeguarded for future generations.
2. Initiate Open and Honest Conversations
Discussing your estate plan with loved ones is an essential, yet often overlooked, step. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures your wishes are respected. Whether it’s discussing how you’d like assets managed or sharing your vision for family heirlooms, initiating these conversations early fosters understanding and alignment within your family.
3. Incorporate Charitable Giving
A meaningful way to live your legacy today is through charitable giving. Consider setting up a charitable trust or making provisions in your estate plan to donate to causes that reflect your values. This allows you to make a lasting impact on the organizations or communities you care about, both now and in the future.
4. Establish Educational Trusts for Future Generations
If empowering the next generation is important to you, consider establishing educational trusts or other resources to help your loved ones succeed. By incorporating these elements into your estate plan, you can ensure that future generations are not only financially supported but also equipped with the knowledge and skills to carry on your legacy responsibly.
5. Review and Update Your Estate Plan Regularly
Your estate plan should evolve as your life does. Major life events like marriage, the birth of children, or changes in your financial situation may require adjustments. Regularly reviewing and updating your plan ensures that it remains aligned with your current values, goals, and family dynamics.
Conclusion
Estate planning isn’t only about the future—it’s about how you choose to live today. The way you build relationships, contribute to your community, and prioritize what matters most to you shapes your legacy. By living intentionally now, you create a foundation that will resonate for years to come.
I’m deeply grateful for the inspiration my trip to Rome brought me, especially the reminder that our legacy is something we build both in life and in planning for the future. If you’re ready to start planning, schedule a free consultation today and together we can work to ensure your legacy is thoughtfully crafted and protected for generations to come.
This article is a service of Cedar Counsel. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love.