Connect with Loved Ones Beyond the Grave

No, this is not about a séance to reach Houdini. This is about you…and me. Have you thought about what you want to be known for when you leave this earth?

My mom did, I started, and maybe by the end of this blog, you will be ready for it too.

Ben Franklin said, "If you do not want to be forgotten as soon as you are dead, either write something worth reading or do something worth writing."

However, creating a simple document that will be remembered long after you're gone is another equally important component to genuinely sharing your best life. What is the easiest way to do this? Writing letters. It is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy and share your wisdom with those you love.

Think of your kids, your grandkids. We want to show you the value of creating meaningful letters that will touch the hearts of your loved ones for years and generations to come. It is your story, your legacy, your last hug.

Why would someone what to read your last hug?

After all, you have effectively lived a full life and told your family how you feel about them, all aptly handled by you, so why go any further?

I will throw the gauntlet down and tell you that saying, "I love you," or perhaps thinking you told them your thoughts, is not enough. Period.

You probably heard the old saying no one ever laid on their deathbed and wishes they had spent more time at the office. Rather, you will wonder, "what will I be remembered for?" What people will say about you years from now and, importantly, what your children and family will pass on about you.

Your life. Your legacy. Your story. Do you want to rely on others to tell it, or do you want to help them tell it?

Why write the letter?

I call this the letter that never posts because it is designed to be written today and shared after your passing. These heartwarming messages will offer your family and friends healing, some insight, and much-needed peace that may never have previously been shared before.

Imagine receiving a heartfelt letter from someone you love and admire after they passed away. They've thought of every detail: their purpose, passions, and how they want others to remember them. By writing these letters, we live on after our bodies die—on paper and in spirit!

Who should receive the letter?

I’d start with the grandkids first, then your kids. Basically, anyone you want to influence or share a memory.

Creating a legacy for the loved ones you have left behind I think is one of the essential things in life. Helping your loved ones continue living through memories and stories is a fantastic way to remember someone who has passed away. They are not sad letters. They should provide comfort and guidance for those left behind. Write with sincerity and love. Discuss what's meaningful to you and your relationship with that person. Let the words evoke emotion and feelings as if you were talking directly to them. Sharing pieces of yourself can also give them a better understanding of who you were and how much you cared about them.

How long should it be?

As long as you would like, 500 words or less is typically recommended. The most important thing to remember when writing these letters is that it's not a comprehensive biography but a thoughtful and meaningful expression of your feelings and memories. These letters capture the highlights of your life and any memories you think should be shared with future generations. It's important that the letters focus on positive experiences and what they mean to you; it's also important that the notes are written with a warm and sincere tone that reflects your personality. Finally, it is essential that the letters remain true to your personal beliefs and values; this ensures that the legacy left behind will be an accurate reflection of who you were and what mattered most in your life.

What can you include in the letter?

Pretty much anything, as long as it's positive. Here are a few thoughts.

·What made you proud of them.

· A special memory or moment that you had together

· Your hopes for their future

· How important they were in your life

· What they taught you

· Things you admired about them

· Wishes and blessings that you hope will come true

Writing a letter like this is not just a nice thing to do; it's a meaningful way to leave something behind for the people who have been a part of your life and will continue after you have gone. It's a beautiful way to honor your relationships, share what was most important, and leave a lasting legacy.

Take time today to start writing those special notes to ensure they are found when the time comes. Remember: write letters that reflect who you are as a person, honor those closest to you, and leave behind positive lessons and advice for generations to come.

Of course, no need to write Houdini. He'll be back. ;-)