Donald Trump

Donald Trump does not seem to know where he wants to be buried.  At least that’s what he was quoted as saying in a Wall Street Journal article on Saturday, June 27, 2015.  The story discussed a trend of people wanting to be cremated and then having their ashes scattered on their favorite golf course.  Since Mr. Trump owns many courses and is a player, he was asked about his wishes for a final resting place. 

One would think that someone as high profile and wealthy as Donald Trump would have his wishes planned.  And perhaps he does and wanted his wishes to be kept private.  Or perhaps he is like the majority of people who are unwilling or unable to discuss end of life issues.  I certainly don’t know but what I do know is that once we reach a point to discuss this topic, some of the fear and trepidation goes away.  That’s the purpose of this blog.  Let’s get the topic out from under the bed and into the daylight.

I want to nudge you to get organized.  While this task can often be farmed out, this particular part of the organization should be created by YOU.  It is no one else’s business about what is in your will, who your insurance agent is, where your bank accounts are located, etc.  Someone trusted only needs to know the location of the document on which you have written the information.

How do you find an attorney who specializes in wills, trusts and estates?  Ask your friends for a recommendation, ask an attorney, contact your local Bar Association or visit the American Bar Association website and click on your state --

http://apps.americanbar.org/legalservices/findlegalhelp/home.cfm.

Once you have your wishes on paper, take a deep breath and prepare for the discussion with your family.  While it may be uncomfortable at first, the more open you are, the more accepting your family should be.  And if the discussion is closed off the first time, remember, you can always bring up the topic again.

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