ETHICAL WILLS

“…I want to say thank you and goodbye and share with you the lessons I’ve learned… I have profoundly experienced that love is all that matters…

During the time of my illness, I have loved more deeply… I do not carry anger. I feel we are all doing the best we can. Judging others closes the heart and when one is dying, that is a waste… Life is how we stand in relationship to both ourselves and to others. Loving and helping each other are all that is important.”

The above excerpts are from an actual “Ethical Will” written by a girl dying from cancer. Ethical Wills can be made by anyone, at any stage of life.

Writing what is known as “Ethical Wills” is an ancient tradition stemming from Biblical times. Usually an Ethical Will is a carefully prepared statement of your values. It is most often shared upon death with those whom you wish to read it, but may be shared by you at any time during your life. An Ethical Will can be a message from your heart to the hearts of those you leave behind. It can include stories from your life, your hopes and dreams for your family members, your wisdom that you feel is important to pass on, or your sincere regrets and apologies. It is a way to leave the best parts of you behind.

An Ethical Will does not replace your legal will or other estate planning documents, but it can accompany them if you so choose. While your estate planning documents leave your valuables to your designated heirs, your “Ethical Will” leaves your special wisdom and truths you have personally learned and lived – your values, your wishes, your memories, your stories, unique insights, your regrets, your truths – anything you think is important to leave to the next generations to know about you.

The Law Offices of Barney, McKenna and Olmstead now offer a special and unique service – assisting you in drafting your own Ethical Will. While many people can embark on this important endeavor on their own, other individuals require advice and assistance of some sort in the writing of their Ethical Will. We offer a broad range of services – from editing and refining your own rough drafts, to drafting an entire Ethical Will for you, based on your ideas and wishes. We are ready to assist you in setting forth your thoughts, values, and unique wisdom in ways that will make a beautiful impression on many generations of your loved ones. We have an “Ethical Will” professional ready to answer your questions and assist you in any way she can.

Those who want to be remembered authentically and for their gifts of heart, mind, and spirit, will take satisfaction in passing on what they hold most-valued, never to be lost or forgotten. Leaving such a special legacy to your loved ones is a way to let part of you live forever.

If you wish to find out more about Ethical Wills, or to read some sample Ethical Wills, log on to the Ethical Will web site, www.ethicalwill.com.

Jeffery J. McKenna is a local attorney licensed in three states and serving clients in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. He is a partner at the law firm of Barney, McKenna and Olmstead, with offices in St. George and Mesquite. He is a founding member of the Southern Utah Estate Planning Council. If you have questions or topics that you would like addressed in these Wednesday articles please email him at jmckenna@www.barney-mckenna.com or call 628-1711.