The following
ethical will was written by my dad when he was 70. He died of lung
cancer about one month after this was written.
Dear Barry and Sandy:
A few words to express my feelings
and thoughts while time is running out on me.
Some standard values that I have basically
lived by throughout my life, are that I have always believed in honesty
and advocated truthfulness. I cherish the family with all my heart. I always
felt that I gave of myself to everyone in the family. The satisfaction
and gratification that I received in return is in the accomplishments of
my children. No father could be as proud as your father is of you. Throughout
your lifetime so far, you have more than exceeded my greatest expectations.
You continue to move forward in a manner that makes me love you more and
more. I'm proud to say "that's my son!"
Through the years, I've tried to take
care of my family and give them some of the better things in life. I tried
and succeeded in being able to give my children a good education. Although
I was only a working man, many was the time I worked two jobs for the extra
money so that the family could have a little bit more. I had often thought
of going into some kind of business, but I didn't have the expertise in
any particular field, or the finances to afford the luxury of risk. However,
I'm proud to say that you have shown me through the years, the aggressiveness
that I lacked emerged in you.
I have tried to be financially sound
and leave behind an adequate amount of finances to carry your mother through
the rest of her days. Being no one can predict the future, I ask that should
it ever be necessary, see that your mother remains comfortable financially
and otherwise.
Sandy, you have always made me proud
with your accomplishments and different endeavors. You have never undertaken
a task that was under-achieved. Through the years you have been in my confidence
and as close as a daughter. I love you and the girls deeply.
My concentration is not too great
at this point as I'm sure I can say much more. Barry could not have picked
a finer mate. You are a good wife and excellent mother. I feel a father
and daughter relation to you.
I hope Alisha and Hannah follow in
the footsteps of the family and their traditions. I love you all.
Dad
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