How Do You Measure a Life?

If you are familiar with the Broadway play Rent, you know the song "Seasons of Love," which tells us we measure a life in love. Some tell us a life is measured by accomplishments, friendships, success, family…the list goes on. Winston Churchill said, "We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give."

Brenda Carver, by every measure, had a wonderful life. Brenda was an outstanding Realtor, for which she had won awards and held multiple volunteer leadership positions. She loved ballroom dancing and was quite accomplished. She had a smile that could light up a room and a bright twinkle in her eyes. She loved spending time with friends she had met through work, dancing or from way back in high school.

But her very best friends and constant companions were her cats: first sweet Samantha and then beautiful Keiko.

When Brenda passed in 2018, she demonstrated another way that one's life can be measured: by creating a lasting legacy of good.

You see, Brenda was a planner. According to her dear friend Lynn, she planned everything down to the smallest detail. When she began making her final plans, she knew her legacy would be impactful and that she wanted to choose two charities she had researched and trusted to use the money wisely. Brenda discussed her plans with Lynn, the friend she had selected as executrix.

She created her will and in it made two transformational gifts: one to the New Hampshire SPCA and the other to the New Hampshire Animal Rescue League in Bedford. With these gifts, Brenda ensured her legacy would be caring for animals right here in her beloved home state of New Hampshire.

Brenda's gift was completely unexpected as we had never had the pleasure of meeting her personally. Through the process of the settlement of her estate, we got to know her through her friend. We learned she loved cats, but was a little uncomfortable around dogs. She was not the typical, passionate animal-lover who would be inclined to make this kind of gift. She didn't have 52 animals, she had two—two cats who had made her life happier, more complete, and who provided her with unconditional love. We can all relate to that sort of love.

Brenda's gift came to us during our recent capital campaign, a pivotal moment in our history. Her generous gift helped us fulfill our plans for the future, helping make important transformation possible. Her gift will not only help animals and people through our services today, but a portion of her gift will help to feed and care for animals decades into the future. And, one day, when the construction that is now underway is complete, there will be a very special spot that will bear Brenda's name. She will always be remembered here.

As Brenda has shown us through her generosity and planning, not only do we make a life by what we give, but what we give can create a lifesaving legacy. On behalf of the animals and the people we serve, we are forever grateful for the love and generosity of this bright-eyed ballroom dancer with the big heart.

Remember What Matters Most

Like Brenda, you can make a gift to the New Hampshire SPCA in your will or other estate plan to recognize the important work we do to protect animals in our community. Contact Lisa Dennison at ldennison@nhspca.org or 603-772-2921 ext. 107 to get started. If you have already made a gift, but not yet notified us, please let us know. By doing so, we can ensure that your wishes are fulfilled exactly as you intended.