The Gift of Estate Planning – A Holiday Tradition Worth Embracing
As we approach the holiday season, our hearts are filled with warmth, joy, and the anticipation of giving and receiving gifts. The holidays are a time when we express our love and appreciation for our family and friends through the exchange of thoughtful presents. However, one gift is often overlooked, yet it is among the most valuable and enduring gifts we can offer to our loved ones — the gift of a well-planned estate. 
Last year, while we were helping a client secure her family’s future, we provided her with a probate pamphlet to help her understand the intricacies of probate fees and their potential impact. We believed it would be a helpful resource in her estate planning process. Grateful, she accepted it and then did something that caught us off guard — she asked for two more. When we asked her why she wanted additional copies, she shared a heartwarming story.
Our client had decided to create a special Christmas basket for her children, a gesture filled with love and gratitude. She intended to convey a unique message this year — that her gift to her children was not a physical item but rather the peace of mind and security she had given them by completing her estate plan.
Estate planning is often a topic that many families avoid discussing, perhaps because it can be an uncomfortable or challenging conversation. However, it is one of the most loving and considerate discussions we can have with our families, whether it’s with our children, parents, or other individuals in our lives. The holidays, a season of togetherness and reflection, provide the perfect opportunity to broach this crucial conversation.
Imagine sitting down with your family during the holidays and s haring the news that you have completed your estate plan. It’s a moment to say, “Hey, guess what I got done!” This message not only conveys your commitment to ensuring their future well-being but also offers them a priceless gift — the gift of clarity, security, and protection. The benefits of estate planning extend far beyond the financial realm. It grants your loved ones the peace of mind that their future is secure and their needs will be met, even after your passing. It eliminates the stress, uncertainty, and potential disputes that can often arise when some individuals do not have a clear plan in place.
This holiday season, let’s embrace the peace and security that come with a well-prepared estate plan. And as you gather with your family during the holidays, take a moment to consider bringing up the topic of estate planning. If you have recently completed your own estate plan, this could be the ideal chance to share your experience and encourage your family members to think about their own plans. Your guidance and openness can inspire others to follow suit, ensuring your family’s legacy and well-being are safeguarded.
During this beautiful holiday season, I extend my warmest wishes to you. May it be a time of love, togetherness, and meaningful conversations that strengthen the bonds of family and create a legacy of care and security.
Happy holidays to you and your loved ones!
