Your Bequest

When I was eighteen, I received a $1,000 bequest from my grandmother.  It was a godsend.  I used the money, together with all of my savings, to buy a new car.

My proud purchase was a metallic blue VW Bug that cost all of $1,800.  I had found the best price from a dealer eighty miles from my home. On the drive back, the Bug was really sluggish and wouldn’t go any faster than 45 miles per hour.  When I parked my new car on the street in front of my home I discovered the reason – I had left the emergency brake on during my entire trip.

Fortunately, no great damage was done, and once again I offer grandma my thanks.  Today I drive a Tesla that accelerates so fast it’s ludicrous. I’m not sure it has even heard of an emergency brake.

Now I’m preparing to distribute what remains of my dad’s estate which will go in equal shares to his eight grandchildren.  I’m sad to think that the sum total of what my dad accumulated during his entire 104 years on this earth now rests in a single bank account.  A long life, reduced to eight bequests to his closest remaining family.

Dad, is that all you, or I, or anyone else, leaves behind?

Absolutely not!  Your essential bequest is so much more.

You left behind immeasurable, non-monetary gifts, including the gift of life to your two sons and eight grandchildren.  You left behind unforgettable memories of travel. Our 14-day driving trip from Los Angeles to Victoria, B.C. when I was sixteen was my favorite. You left a legacy of wisdom. Whenever I complained to you about the problems of my business you would say, “If there weren’t problems they wouldn’t need you.” Mostly you left the treasure of your love for all of your family, your many students, and countless friends. Last year almost 100 students, friends, and family members gathered for the celebration of your life.

In a few weeks I will be mailing out eight checks.  While they will be welcomed by your grandchildren, I’m sure that when the reckoning of your value and contribution is totaled up, all of us will appreciate most your flair, your being there for us, and the many years we enjoyed together.

Thank you.  Each of us should be as fortunate in the bequests we leave behind.

Alan