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| Write an Ethical Will |
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- An ethical will can be hand written or prepared on a computer. Most ethical wills are relatively short (a few pages).
- One popular format is to write a first person essay describing what have been key lessons in life. Some people write about childhood experiences or careers that taught valuable character traits such as honesty, integrity, thrift, loyalty or perseverance.
- Another technique is to write an ethical will in letter form, addressing children or a spouse. In this letter, the individual describes how each person has been loved and valued by them.
- The tone of an ethical will is always first person, positive, and loving, and should contain no surprises that could disturb family members or loved ones. This is not the appropriate place to resurrect family feuds, air political or religious opinions, or assign blame. Grievances are better handled in person or with a third party, not put into writing
- Keep a copy with other important papers. Some people choose to share their ethical wills with loved ones right after they've written them. In this way the document becomes an affirmation - and a celebration - of what has been important in his or her life.
About The Author: An Arizona freelance writer for the past decade, Claire is a regular contributor to the Arizona Republic's business, career builder and community sections and is also the author of a statewide restaurant guide, "Dining in Arizona - 101 Great Places to Eat" Claire has co-authored several cookbooks and is now a working chef and menu designer in Sun City, AZ.
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