A legacy letter (also called an “ethical will”) is a written document that allows people to reflect on your important life experiences, and transmit your values, life lessons and blessings to future generations. Ethical wills (tzava’ot in Hebrew) are deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, beginning with Jacob’s instructions to his sons in Genesis 49. There has been a recent resurgence of interest in this tradition and people of all faiths and backgrounds are choosing to write an ethical will or legacy letter, especially in the current moment, when so many are thinking about what is really important to them, what lessons they have to share, and how they want to be remembered. Through this hands-on workshop, participants will be guided in beginning to craft their personal legacy letter.
About the presenter: In a long and varied career, Jay Sherwin has practiced law, given away money for Jewish and secular charitable foundations, worked as a philanthropy consultant and served as a hospital chaplain. Drawing on all those experiences, Jay created the Life Reflections Project to educate people about legacy letters and ethical wills; he now teaches classes and workshops on legacy writing and helps people craft their own legacy documents. From 2007-2018, Jay lived in the Bay Area and served on the board at Temple Isaiah in Lafayette. He moved back home to New England in 2018 and now lives in Portland, Maine. You can read more about Jay and the Life Reflections Project on his website at www.jaysherwin.com.
In partnership with Development, Jewish Life, and Adult Programs Departments. Space is limited. Register by December 5. $18 registration includes lunch. Register here.
