With countless advertisements showcasing the best gifts, an abundance of greeting cards and endless experience packages, one extraordinary and deeply meaningful gift often goes unnoticed. What is it? An end-of-life plan.
More than just a will
Yes, a will is part of it, but a complete end-of-life plan extends far beyond that. A well-prepared plan includes:
a legally documented will
financial and healthcare power of attorney arrangements
secure organisation of passwords and financial information
decisions about body disposition and funeral or memorial arrangements
an advance healthcare directive outlining medical preferences
digital estate planning to manage your online presence after passing.
Why talk about this?
You might think, ‘This isn’t the right time to talk about death. I want to celebrate life and love!’ That feeling is completely understandable. Western culture often shies away from discussing mortality, preferring to focus on the present. However, reflecting on life’s impermanence can actually enhance the way we live.
Life and death are intertwined
Recognising that life has a natural endpoint allows us to appreciate the present more fully. Birth and death create the framework within which we experience everything in between. By planning for the inevitable, we relieve our loved ones of unnecessary stress and confusion during an already difficult time. Even with a well-prepared plan, settling affairs can be challenging – without one, it becomes significantly harder.
The gift that lasts beyond a lifetime
Consider giving a gift unlike any other – the gift of peace of mind. Your loved one might initially be surprised or even amused by the idea, but when they understand that life and death are interconnected, they may see the value in preparing for the future. Taking the time to discuss and document end-of-life wishes is one of the most loving acts you can do for those who matter most.