Preparing your Own Ethical or Values Will

The purpose of preparing this writing is for you to leave your family and friends and future generations a description of the values you hold to be important so they will know you. It is an effort to provide a window into your soul.

1. What to Include in an Ethical Will. Describe what has mattered most to you in life--faith, family, friends, job, specific accomplishments, charitable work. (Consider what Thomas Jefferson left on his tombstone about his life and that he omitted his service as President of the United States). Consider adding stories of deeper a personal meaning. Perhaps state your definition of success, or recall your happiest or funniest moments, what you have learned from mistakes you have made, state what you are most passionate about, or recall key events, beliefs and goals. You can go in any of these directions. You do not need to go in all of them.
 
2. Your Uniqueness. There is no magic formula for this writing.  The content is up to you. It is a way to express your own personality and experience, which is unique from anyone else.  Just make sure when  you have finished it, you are satisfied you have passed on to others who you are and what you stand for.

3. Length. You can make this as short or as long as you want.  Too long cuts down on who will read it. Too short may not accomplish the purpose.

4. When to Do It.  It's never too soon. Life is uncertain. We do not know how long we will live or how long we will retain our mental facilities to write or our physical stamina to do so. Do it now! It is an effort to provide a window into your soul.

Milt Smith,
October 9, 2007