“Legacy” has become one of the more common buzz words used by estate planners to describe the end goal of preparing an estate plan.  This can take on many different meanings, but the essence of what a legacy is revolves around how we will be thought of when we are no longer around.

For some, legacy is attached to something tangible such as a business or a piece of real estate held by their family for generation.  In some cases, legacy revolves around the causes and ideas that one or more family members have passed down to their descendants.  And for others, it may simply mean the financial stability provided to a family by a loved one’s well thought out planning.

As we gather with our families over the next few days, I invite you all to think about how you define your legacy; how the legacies of others have affected you; and what lessons and ideals you would like to pass on to your children and grandchildren.  Though you may not be able to clearly define it, it is helpful to start picturing the legacy you wish to leave and begin building a solid foundation on which you can achieve it.

I wish you all a very happy and healthy holiday season!