An ethical /spiritual will is a means of communicating what you care about most to the people you care about most. It may contain the following:

•  personal values and lessons learned in life

1. • experiences and family memories
   

2. • hopes and wishes for the future
   

3. • spiritual beliefs and expressions of faith
   

•  expressions of love and forgiveness

•  explanation of why you are transferring your assets in the way you are

The creation of an ethical / spiritual will can be a cleansing experience. It is an opportunity to reach deep inside and bring to light those things that define your true self. It is often something done in the later years of life but can also be a valuable exercise at any time.

An ethical / spiritual will can take many forms. It may be a short handwritten letter or a full-length personal history or memoir. It may be completed in a video interview or done as an audio recording. It may be in the form of a book with pictures and captions or be a combination of any of these elements. The key is that it accurately reflects the true feelings and desires of the individual and clearly communicates the message he or she would like to leave with their family or particular audience.

As with the creation of any important document, it is wise to first clearly define the purpose of the ethical will and the intended audience for whom it will be created. Then spend time making a list and brainstorming topics, ideas, and stories that should be included. Identify and gather pictures and documents that stimulate memories and are meaningful to you. Let these things percolate in your mind for a time, and then begin writing or recording your thoughts about these elements. Set it aside for a while then continue the process. Edit, revise, and recombine these elements until it says what you want it to say.

There is no legal or specified form that it should take. It should just be something that you are pleased with and that you feel communicates those things you desire to share. At Pictures and Stories, we facilitate the process and make it easier to complete. When completed, the ethical will often takes the form of a book with a companion audio or video recording. Both print and electronic media are edited, finely tuned and finished to convey the message in a meaningful and lasting way. We would be happy to present some ideas and discuss options with you.