The One Thing You Can Take to Heaven: Your Children

By Prof. Enrique N. Soriano

One of the most profound experiences in my years as a family business consultant came from a client who became a lifelong friend. A week before he passed away, with tears in his eyes, he confided in me his deepest regret—the years he had spent chasing wealth and power, neglecting the most important investment of all: his children.

He spoke of the countless missed opportunities to nurture them, to pass on wisdom and values instead of just financial wealth. He saw life slipping away too quickly, and the realization hit him with unbearable weight—he had built an empire, but he had failed in his highest calling as a father. And now, it was too late. He died a broken man, knowing that no amount of money could buy back the time he lost with his children.

Raising children isn’t just a responsibility; it is the greatest legacy a parent can leave behind.

Success Can Be Blinding

He had it all—power, influence, an empire built from nothing. His garage was filled with luxury cars, his name commanded respect in boardrooms, and his deals shaped industries. He measured success by profit margins and legacy by the size of his business empire.

And yet, at the end of it all, as he stood on the precipice of eternity, none of it mattered.

Not the sprawling mansion that took years to build. Not the limited-edition sports cars. Not the acquisitions in the billions. Everything he had spent his life accumulating would be left behind, reduced to mere footnotes in the history of business. But there was one thing—one sacred responsibility—that transcended the material. One legacy that mattered more than all the wealth in the world: his children.

The Highest Calling: Raising Souls for Eternity

In the relentless pursuit of success, founders and business leaders often fall into the trap of measuring life’s worth by tangible assets. The empire you build, the fortune you amass, the influence you wield—these become markers of your existence. But wealth is fleeting. The mansion you own will one day belong to another. The luxury cars you treasure will gather dust in someone else’s garage. The billions in your bank account? Meaningless the moment you take your last breath.

But your children? They are eternal.

As a parent, you are not just responsible for providing material comfort. You are entrusted with shaping souls. You get to mold character, instill values, and prepare them for a life that goes beyond the fleeting years of earthly existence. You will not stand before God and present your business empire. You will not showcase your wealth or flaunt your achievements. Instead, you will stand before Him with your children and say, “Look what we did with what You gave us.”

Did you raise children who are kind, compassionate, and just? Did you teach them integrity, faith, and responsibility? Did you guide them toward a purpose greater than themselves?

Or did you neglect them in the pursuit of deals and acquisitions, leaving them to be raised by the world while you built an empire destined to crumble?

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The W+B Family Governance Leadership Masterclass: Securing Your Legacy for Generations

Navigating the complexities of family businesses goes beyond managing profits and growth—it demands a deep understanding of family dynamics, succession planning, and governance to ensure stability across generations. Conflicting visions, unresolved tensions, and leadership transitions can make this journey feel like walking a tightrope without a safety net.

In response to the growing need for clarity and direction among family owning businesses, the W+B Family Governance Leadership Masterclass returns for its second edition this May and June! This immersive three-day program is designed to help participants uncover tailored solutions to their most pressing challenges while equipping them with the knowledge and skills essential for long-term success.Through a combination of virtual sessions and an in-person graduation event, this Masterclass will guide participants in:

• Unraveling the fundamentals of family business governance
• Developing strategies for fostering a harmonious family culture
• Mastering succession planning and leadership development

Take the first step in securing your family business legacy. Limited slots available—reserve your place now at 09173247216 or email service@wbadvisoryasia.com. Look for Julia to get started!