“See you tomorrow…” “See you later…” “Talk to you soon.” How many times in the last week have you said that to someone? If you’re like me, you’ve probably said it dozens of times recently. But I’d like to share a story that profoundly impacted me this weekend, reminding me that sometimes, there isn’t a “later.”
My name is Rusty Peterson with IAG Wealth Partners. I’m stepping in for Scott Heins this week who is away from his keyboard this week.
The Fragility of Life
This past Saturday was my neighbor’s birthday. I saw him in the morning as he was getting ready for the day and wished him a happy birthday. His wife told me the day before that they were planning to be out all day celebrating. A couple of hours later, there were a bunch of cars at their house, and my wife and I wondered what was going on. In fact, one person came to the house, rang the doorbell and then left. After that happened, our doorbell rang, and it was some of their friends to tell me that he had passed away suddenly.
This shocking event reminded me of the unpredictability of life. We often take for granted that we will see our loved ones again, but what if we don’t? Is your family truly prepared if they never see you again? The older we get, the more frequently we have to live this out whether it is neighbors, family, friends or a beloved pet.
I thought it may help some to think of three things today that can help us all. At least that is my hope that it will help.
Be Present
First and foremost, be present. In our busy lives, it’s easy to let our minds wander, even when we’re physically with our loved ones. Whether it’s your spouse, your children, your friends, or your family, make an effort to truly be with them. Put away distractions and focus on the moment. Genuine connection is invaluable, and you never know when it might be your last opportunity to share it. For many of us, that means putting down our phones or tablets when we are with our family and friends.
Be Prepared
Being prepared goes beyond just having a plan; it means making sure that plan is robust and up-to-date. This includes having your financial affairs in order, such as wills, insurance, and investments, but also ensuring your loved ones know your wishes and how to execute them. It’s about preparing for the worst, so your family isn’t left in a difficult situation during an already challenging time. This is what the advisors of IAG Wealth Partners do on an ongoing basis for our clients along with the help of their other trusted advisors like their attorney.
Be Diligent
Preparation is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Life changes, and so should your plans. Regularly review and update your estate plan, insurance policies, and financial strategies to reflect your current situation and goals. This diligence ensures that your plans remain effective and that your loved ones are always protected.
A Call to Action
If you are not sure whether you and your family are adequately prepared and want to be diligent, I urge you to take action. IAG Wealth Partners is here to help you.
Life is precious and unpredictable. By being present, prepared, and diligent, we can ensure that we cherish our moments with loved ones and secure their future, no matter what happens. Don’t wait until it’s too late to make these important decisions. Start today, and know you are well-prepared for whatever life may bring.
Quote of the week:
John Wooden: “The most important thing in the world is family and love.”
