Monday, November 2, 2009

Wills and All Souls Day

Today we remember and pray for all the souls of the faithfully departed. I just so happen to also be working on our wills this morning. There is nothing like drawing up a will to make you face the reality and certainty of death. Although Brian and I pray we have many years before any of this will need to be enacted, it is quite something to ponder the fact that this will is necessary as someday we'll die.

In no way is this a pleasant task, to think about where one wants to be buried and how to establish a trust for your child's care, but at the same time, this is a way in which we are showing our love by making sure everything is taken care of in the best way possible rather than leaving everything (including Joseph's care) to be decided by the courts since we failed to leave instructions.

It is amazing how having a child suddenly motivates you to think beyond the moment to the unpredictable future. As parents, we have moved beyond the invincible mentality of youth, to the responsible maturity of adulthood. We now have life insurance policies in place, are working on our wills, power of attorney designations and will to live forms. Now more than ever, it is crucial not to leave these decisions in the hands of the state or strangers, and to make sure the people you love and trust know exactly what your wishes are.

Some people put these things off because they feel uncomfortable thinking about their deaths and the possible circumstances which may surround it. For me, however, I find myself more and more uneasy until all of these forms are completed and filed.
I look forward to the peace of mind it will bring me to have these details sorted out.

I pray for all my loved ones who have gone before me, and draw inspiration from their own examples of responsibility and faithfulness. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen.