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Meeting virtually, we recited the Pledge of Allegiance and dispensed with singing and verbalizing The Four Way Test. There were no guests to introduce. Members were encouraged to keep Dave Peters in their thoughts and prayers as he struggles with some major health issues. Keith Olson led off brags and fines, commemorating his daughter McKenzie's 29th birthday the day before. Tim Hunt reported that his grandson has returned to Scotland after everyone scattered because of the pandemic. Mary Pettit expressed her concern for daughter Hannah who is pregnant and caught the flu bug. Mary Pettit was then introduced to present on planning for the aging process and, ultimately, death. A person dealing with these concerns must not only accept what is before them but also help others, such as their children and other close relatives and friends to do so as well. Mary appreciates the statement, "do not regret growing older as it is a privilege denied to many." She outlined ten different things to consider as one grows older: 1) get your financial house in order; 2) get your estate plan in order; 3) downsize your space; 4) get health care directives (and powers of attorney) in place; 5) record your family history; 6) don't hesitate to reach out for help, which includes practicing how to ask for help; 7) accept limitations aging may place on driving or may eliminate your ability to drive altogether; 8) set up your funeral plan and identify your final wishes; 9) accept each staqe in your life; and 10) prepare loved ones. Mary referenced several times how her parents modeled the foregoing. She finished by pointing out that the trick to aging gracefully if to enjoy it. Additional comments were offered by this writer, Keith Olson, Tim Hunt and Jamie Larson on aids in this process, including letters of last instruction, prepaying funeral costs, the availability of veteran's benefits, setting up revocable trusts to avoid probate and getting your insurance materials current and organized. Certainly not an easy or inviting subject but one best not to ignore. Thank you, Mary. |
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