Talking about end-of-life plans can be difficult, but those conversations are important. We invite you to read the following letter and consider if your children may feel the same way. 

Dear Mom and Dad, 

Throughout our lives, you have given us so much love, support, help, and even discipline. You’ve always been there for us and the grandkids too. We love you deeply, and we have been thinking about something. 

We need you to talk with us about the future. We understand you may be uncomfortable talking about aging and death, but what if something happens to you before you’ve ever communicated your plans or wishes with us? Losing you will be much more painful if our family is left trying to process your estate while we’re grieving.  

Do you have an up-to-date will? If not, we hope you’ll take time to get your affairs in order and designate your assets as you wish. We’ve heard stories of how difficult it can be to settle things through probate. 

Please share your plans with us. Whether it’s one-on-one over coffee or together at an official family meeting, we would love to hear what you’ve planned and why. We want to know your motivations for giving and have a chance to talk about our family history. 

Everyone in our family has been impacted by your example. We’re all a part of your legacy. We want to hear about the beliefs and values that have shaped your life – and we want to know how you feel about us.  

Love,  

Your Adult Children 

Did you know that 60 percent of Americans do not have an up-to-date estate plan? It’s a great risk, especially when a will can be such a simple and powerful way to communicate love and connect with your loved ones on a deeper level. Talking about the future can create certainty and peace, and it can even inspire them to get involved with the passions and causes you care about. 

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to be there for your children.