My Legacy by Myer Tzvi Glatt  ( translated from Yiddish by Layah Laks  Jan.1998. Edited Frank Levin )
 

I must soon part with this world; I will go to my eternal rest.

My child, I want to talk with you, so come close and listen.

I have taught you well: good deeds and habits.

Your heart is good, your head is wise, you surely will cherish what you’ve learned.

Yet there is yet something left to tell you in this final hour.

I have written it down for you, so look at what I wrote.

You, my child, were born a Jew, so remain a Jew, good and refined.

That ancient name should never be a source of embarrassment.

Even though you may be in high standing, your name “Jew” should not bother you.

Many put it to shame; they are ignorant fools.

The time is not near, perhaps still distant, when the opposite will be true.

The time when the name “Jew” will be respected.

The name “Jew” is our birthright and that name has cost us dearly.

It has caused us pain, to be subjected to evil decrees;

Because of it, we were burned at the stake.

Still you should hold our Jewish faith fast, as clearly and pure as you can understand.

Keep it safely hidden in your heart; it will always be a source of comfort for you.

The Jewish faith is clear and pure, as clear as a clear blue sky.

However, not everyone understands it, perhaps only one among ten thousand.

One with full understanding, the ordinary follower can not comprehend.

The pure religion is God’s ring; all the treasures of the world don't have its worth.

Those who underestimate it are not destined to have a tranquil life.

May our Torah be holy to you; if you fear God, then love another as you love yourself.

You should heed, not ignore this teaching I’m sharing with you my son.

What you do not tolerate from others, don’t impose upon them.

Our Torah’s wisdom has been long known among many nations in the world.

Look my child, recognize our Torah for what it is, our jewel, our crown.

The World is God’s house, and he demands it offer freedom to all mankind, powerful and lowly.

So honour the poor man as though he were rich, nor feel humble in the presence of the rich. 

All men are equal. The man who serves you, brings you water, chops your wood,

Give him his peace and your blessing. Do not scorn him nor be haughty.

Nor reject the fool and have pity on the “wild one.” They too are brothers.

They need to be taught. They need to be educated.

Do favors for people according to your means and help them with your whole heart.

However you should never ask them, to which religion they belong.

Even the poor gypsy, you must help him in his need; he is a human being, your brother.

Give him water, give him bread.
 

I have told you and I say it again, be a Jew with knowledge and understanding.

All men are brothers, one God, same father. Comprehend my child and remember what I say.

But above all, be a “mench,”  ( man in the best sense of the word ) be a Jew.