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 A
few weeks ago I was traveling in a car with a STC alumnus. I would like to
tell you that we were on some very important mission as we traveled across
town. However, as I recall, it was a trip to the local Dairy Queen that
drew our attention. Isn’t it interesting how the very small things in life
now make us happy?Without any prodding on my part, my cohort mentioned "I really should get my Will signed and returned. It’s been lying on my desk now for several months." Obviously, several thoughts crossed my mind. This resulted in some confusion on my part as to which response might be most appropriate. I selected the ‘high road’. "It’s difficult getting started, isn’t it?" This was the best I could do as I could tell that the gentleman was already upset with himself for having allowed this process to linger for such a time. I assured him that this was not uncommon. In fact, it was probably more common than not for most of us. ‘Getting Started’ is much like a trip to the dentist, once there and treated, the anticipation was far worse than the actual procedure. This is true of any project, physical or otherwise. Taking the first step is the most difficult becoming easier as we go. Drafting a Will is not a bloody procedure. In the presence of an attorney, he can guide you in the decision-making process. He provides order and suggestions as well as answering any questions that you might have. Too, a Will is not expensive, usually falling in the $200 – $500 range depending upon individual circumstances. It is certainly well worth the peace of mind one receives once the plan is in place. Every man or woman, husband and wife of legal age should have a Will. One does not need a large estate to qualify in this regard. Rather, any one of us with nominal assets should have those assets subject to the terms of a Will to save misunderstanding and hardship on the surviving family members. A Will simply states your wishes in regards to the disposition to these assets. Wills can be changed. Certainly, Wills should occasionally be reviewed whenever a substantial change has occurred in the life of the individual/couple. Throughout life, our assets and resources and status are being revised. These changes require our attention and modifications may need to be made to one’s Will. Traditionally, our assets grow as we age so it’s important that we review our Wills in that regard. It is wise to have a Will in place for other reasons. Most of us (70%) make our major gifts at the time of our death. As a result, in most cases one never sees the outcome of his/her gift. This is unfortunate because a properly drafted Will might include a Remaining Trust or a Charitable Gift Annuity. These instruments might have provided additional tax-free income while one was alive or use of a gifted asset, a home for example. A Will is simply a road map of how you wish to have your assets distributed upon death. As we approached the outside window to place our order, I waited patiently to lay my trap. "Two chocolate-dipped cones, medium please" was the order. Proceeding forward, the treats awaiting us seemed over-sized. I could see that shifting, steering, driving and eating became difficult for my cohort. Waiting until just the right moment when all activities were happening at once I said, "Well, I sure hope that you have included the Hastings Catholic Schools in your estate plans!" His cone immediately took a new shape as did mine from the ensuing laughter. |
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For those of
you who may be interested in taking a look at a few Reunion photos, you
may now do so at