Words to Soar By

Have your heard of "eulogy virtues"? Think happy thoughts. In his book, How to Live Forever, Marc Freedman of Encore describes them as our "character and love, relationships and commitments, generativity (i.e. concern for future generations) and legacy."

Hello! This is what Family Love Letters is all about!

Rather than waiting for people to kvell about us when we die, we can write and live by our own words while we're very much alive. In their letters, my clients describe hardships they've overcome, relationships they've fostered, proud moments and of the love and wishes they have for their children and grandchildren. They talk about what they're focused on and how they're living each day.

OMG, read this powerful, loving passage that Charles E. wrote to her children:

"I am most proud of the life I have tried to live. I love talking to people because everyone has an interesting story to tell. I am open. I am dynamic. I have tried to be a good mother, wife, grandmother, friend and citizen.

I am proud of overcoming major obstacles to earn degrees in higher education.
I am proud of my work as a nurse and as a demanding, compassionate professor.
I am proud of being an activist for justice and the rights of African Americans and women.

I'm proud of you, my children, for being good people, for having a barometer for what's right and what's wrong. Try to do what's best in life using all available resources. That's all you can do."

Whew! Powerful, inspirational and loving.

What are your eulogy virtues?