Making a Will as a Practice of Care
Most of us know that we should have a will. Many of us still do not.
Maybe we think a will is only necessary when we are older or have significant assets. Maybe the decisions seem complicated. Or maybe making a will brings us too close to something we would rather not think about: the fact that our lives will end.
National Make-A-Will Month gives us a reason to stop putting it off. A will can reflect the wisdom, compassion, and generosity we try to cultivate during our lives.
There is wisdom in acknowledging that our lives will end and considering what that means. A will turns that understanding into practical decisions. Who relies on us? What responsibilities do we want to fulfill?
There is also compassion in this preparation. Clear plans can bring peace of mind now and spare the people closest to us from having to make difficult choices while they are grieving.
A will can also be an expression of generosity. After caring for loved ones, some people choose to leave a gift to a community or organization that has been important to them.
If BCBS has been an important part of your life, including it in your estate plans is one way to help future generations find refuge in study, practice, and community.
A planned gift does not have to be large to matter. Every gift helps BCBS provide financial assistance, care for our campus, and continue to bring Buddhist study and contemplative practice to all who might benefit.
This month may be the nudge to create a will for the first time, review one you made years ago, or begin a conversation with your family or an attorney.
You can learn more on our Planned Giving page. If you have questions or would like to talk about including BCBS in your plans, please contact Executive Director Melissa Gopnik at melissag@buddhistinquiry.org or 978-355-2347. Melissa would be glad to speak with you confidentially and without pressure.
If you have already included BCBS in your estate plans, we invite you to let us know through our legacy gift notification form. Sharing your plans is entirely optional, but it gives us the opportunity to thank you.
BCBS cannot provide legal, financial, or tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional about your individual circumstances.
