How can you share your life's
experiences with younger generations and valued loved ones? Learn
how to create your own legacy statement, an enduring message
detailing your values, philosophy of life and hopes for the future
at Douglas County Libraries this Spring. Registration is required
for these free workshops, please contact your library to book your
spot:
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Highlands Ranch Library: Saturday, April 29, 2
p.m.
9292 Ridgeline Boulevard, Highlands Ranch, 303-791-7703
-
Lone Tree Library: Sunday, May 7, 2 p.m.
8827 Lone Tree Parkway, Lone Tree, 303-799-4446
-
Louviers Library: Tuesday, April 25, 2 p.m.
7885 Louviers Boulevard, 303-791-7323
-
Parker Library: Sunday, April 23, 2 p.m.
10851 South Crossroads Drive, Parker, 303-841-3503
-
Philip S. Miller Library: Saturday, April 22, 2
p.m.
100 South Wilcox Street, Castle Rock, 303-688-7700
What is a legacy statement? According to
Gwenn M. Jensen, PhD,
the speaker at the Wisdom Givers programs, a legacy statement
is a "document written by you to convey your vision of life for
generations to come.
In the past, legacy statements have been called "ethical
wills" reflecting their origin in Judeo-Christian history as a
final pronouncement to one's heirs. Today, the concept has expanded
to include statements that can be written and shared at any stage
of one's life. Just as the seasons change, your legacy statement
can evolve over time."
Jensen explains, "Unlike an oral history, a legacy statement
is a distillation of your values, your philosophy of life, and your
hopes for the future.
You can include expressions of your love, apologies, as well
as affirmations of your spiritual life." A legacy statement is an
effective way of choosing how to leave your imprint on the world,
to whom to offer it, and what you wish to include. It is your
chance to convey what you feel is your life's legacy.
Jensen is a consulting personal and oral historian who is
committed to helping others preserve their life stories and leave
lasting legacies for their families and communities.
"My mom died at age 62, after a short illness," she says. "It
was so unexpected, sudden, and painful that we had no time to pose
long-unasked questions.I now realize that many of my core values
come from her and my father, and it is too late to uncover how much
is theirs and how much is unique to me. This realization led to my
passion for personal history and legacy letters so that others
could pass on their stories, their convictions, and their beliefs
before the moment of opportunity passes."
Douglas County Libraries is online at
www.DouglasCountyLibraries.org.