Do you have morals, values, wishes, or expressions of
forgiveness and love that you want to pass on to others after you die? Recording your
intentions in an ethical will is one way of doing that. This excerpt from Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in
Urban Nursing Homes explains the ethical will:
"Another kind of will
that more people are considering is an ethical will. This non-binding will, which can be written or
recorded informally in audio or video, includes values, morals, and wishes that someone bequeaths
or hands down to others. While it is not legally binding, an ethical will
provides a wonderful opportunity to pass on a legacy from one generation to the
next, across generations, and beyond family members. Conveying this
information, which may include stories, can be very comforting, particular for someone who is terminally ill. It’s a personal way of letting relatives and friends know
one’s ethical intentions that are not connected to material inheritance. For
example, a father might encourage his children to be good parents or will them
the courage to make just decisions in life. Relatives might be asked to
continue positive family traditions. Particular family members and friends
might be advised to improve by incorporating more positive behaviors that have
been lacking.”
Think about what your legacy beyond material gain would be for your beneficiaries. Consider leaving a record of your wishes in an ethical will.
Frances Shani Parker,
Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at booksellers such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at booksellers such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
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