It’s what people do when they are on their death bed: mavaega, a verbal will and instructions before their last breath. 

Today, are you really expecting your children to carry on your legacy? Whatever that may be and whatever wealth, knowledge, talents you have accumulated over the last thirty or fifty years, do you trust that your children are the best beneficiaries and guardians for those? How much pressure are you putting on them to carry that through?

Leaving a legacy means giving something that will be valued and treasured by those left behind after we are gone. It requires thought to ensure that anything you leave will also have the same value to those who inherit them. Leaving your legacy can also mean giving something that commemorates your life. 

This can either be a charitable donation; trust accounts for specific purposes, such as education or insurance; sentimental objects; or writings and photos that family, friends or a community can cherish. At its best, a legacy can help make life better for those who outlive you (Nationwide, 2022)

I am sure many parents and grandparents have thought about this long and hard. Some decisions are easy such as who to leave the favourite cat to. Some are hard and may even break up your family when you are gone.

Many siblings have fought over stuff. Many take each other to court over materials and money that their parents left behind. I know families who are not family anymore due to this. I wonder if that is what their parents would’ve wanted for their children when they were working hard, thinking about the future. Of course not!

Every parent, accumulate, save, work day in and day out to provide for their children. Even throughout our twenties, thirties and much later, our parents still care for us and our children. By that I mean, some are still financially responsible and obligated because that is who they are.

Well meaning parents who grew up struggling and lived in poverty are generous with their blessings. They know the meaning of hard work, they understand the major challenges to make it in this world. When their children refuse to carry on that career, that business, that legacy, it can be frustrating and scary at the same time. 

Who did they work hard for? There is also the feeling of resentment, anger and disappointment among many, when things do not work out. How can we ensure we leave value behind? While we cannot guarantee that all our wishes will come true, these are some things we can do now.

1. Spend time with your children while growing up: This I know is a challenge for all of us.

2. Model and teach what’s important. Not only the financials, materials but more so on relationships and quality time.

3. Speak life into your family everyday, blessing your children, grandchildren and all generations to come. Don’t wait until you are in the hospital, dying before you do this. By then, it’s already too late. 

4. Share your knowledge and truth from your life to your loved ones. Leave your wisdom for them. Be honest.

5. Have realistic expectations for your children because they might not want to carry on in what we built even though our intentions are good. That is ok. You can invest in the next generation, your grandchildren. Otherwise, there are many who can be trained to take over when you are gone.

6. Many charities would benefit from your knowledge, skills and bank account if your children are not willing to carry on your legacy. Establish a trust with lawyers who will abide by the law to carry out your wishes well after your death.

7. Plan ahead, make your wills and write everything down as well as registering it with the court or whoever the legal representative may be.

8. Power of attorney is important. Learn about them, plan for them and pay for them too.

9. Focus on the present and not over worry about the future. It will come with its own pressures.

Enjoy another peaceful Sunday Samoa and leave a legacy of value.