Why I Talk About Wills | Catherine Nelson

By Catherine Nelson

Some of the conversations we put off are the very ones our families may someday wish we had started.

I know that personally. My parents died without wills, and I remember the confusion that followed.

When you are grieving, you already have so much to carry. Having unanswered questions about someone’s wishes adds another layer.

That experience is one reason I talk to families about preparing important documents. This subject is personal to me.

The Conversation Can Begin with Love

Talking about a will can feel uncomfortable.

Someone may say, “We have plenty of time.” Another person may worry that bringing it up sounds negative. Sometimes, nobody wants to be the first one to speak.

I understand those feelings. But I also think about the people who may eventually have to make decisions without clear guidance.

What would we want them to know? Where would they find important information? Have we actually told them, or simply assumed they understand?

Those questions can open a caring conversation.

Turn Good Intentions into a Next Step

You do not have to figure everything out in one afternoon.

Start by gathering the documents you already have. Make a list of questions and think about what has changed in your family since those documents were prepared.

Perhaps there has been a marriage, a loss, a new grandchild, or a change in whom you would trust to help.

Then speak with a qualified attorney about your wishes and which documents fit your circumstances.

A conversation around the kitchen table is a beginning. Professional guidance helps you understand how to take the next step.

Why I Call It a Love Letter

I sometimes describe preparing your wishes as a final love letter to your family.

It says, “I thought about you. I took time to prepare. I wanted you to have guidance.”

It cannot take away grief. But preparation can give the people you love something clearer to turn to during a difficult time.

I cannot change what my family experienced. I can share what it taught me.

If you would like to learn about access to a law firm for help preparing a will and other covered documents, contact me through this website. We can arrange a phone or Zoom conversation to review the available plan information.

Catherine Nelson | Nelco & Associates LLC

This article shares personal experience and general information, not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney about your estate planning needs. Legal plan services are subject to the applicable contract, limitations, and exclusions.