Ethical Will

Many people have a legal will to disburse and distribute assets and valuables. Still others have a living will that gives instructions on what medical interventions are desired or not desired at the end of life. However, the vast majority of people do not consider protecting and sharing the most important and valuable things we possess that can be passed down through the generations, our values, beliefs, the way we have lived, stories about our lives and more. It is a way to see that these things live on.

Ethical wills can be written about any or all of the following and more:

• Important events and accomplishments in your life (you might want to start with a timeline);
• Lessons you have learned in life;
• Family history Values and Beliefs;
• Spiritual values and/or lessons; how you learned them and how you used them.

Write about your beliefs and how they have affected you.
Personal values and how they became your personal values
Share about things you are grateful for.

Traditions

• Write about family traditions that have been important to you;
• Tell the story behind family heirlooms.

• Write about your faith and how your faith has been important to you;
• Share your hopes;
• Impart blessings.
  

Ethical Wills:

• Are not legal documents;
• Should not be used for vengeance;
• Can be used as a love letter;
• Should come from the heart; and
• Can include humor.

Writing an ethical will, may seem like a difficult task at first. Brainstorm ideas and jot them down. Or start with just a few words or a sentence or two for any of the subjects above and gradually add to them. Don't attempt to write everything in one sitting. Take your time, be informal and clean up grammar and spelling when you are finished.