Released:

In shadows cast by loss, I stand, with memories woven, like grains of sand. Uncles gone, and now my aunt, in silent whispers, their spirits chant. Each laugh, each tear, a story told, in the tapestry of life, their threads of gold. Reflecting on the paths we've walked, in moments shared, in love we’ve talked. Now free from burdens, from pain's cruel clutch, they soar above, in peace, they touch. No more the weight of earthly strife, In the embrace of eternal life. What is my role in this fleeting dance? To guide the lost, to offer a chance. To help others find their own release, to share in the love, to foster peace. So I carry their light, in my heart it stays, in every kind word, in all of my ways. For in the end, it's love that remains, A bond unbroken, through joy and through pain. As I journey forth, I hold them near, in every heartbeat, in every tear. For they are not gone, just set free, in the echoes of memory, forever with me. (written with the help of AI)

Things I Have Learned and Am Passing On to You

1) Financial Beneficiaries: Put whoever you want to inherit your money on all your stuff, even if you have a will.

2) Will: Have a will and don't put it in a safe or lockbox unless someone has the code or key. Aunt Charlie had a safe, and we had to wait till we received the Death Certificate, which takes 4-6 weeks. (Lawyer is best)

3) Deeds to Land and House: If you divorce and your partner is still on the property, it will be split with their living relatives (parents, new family, etc.). If you remarry, make sure your new partner is on the deed.

4) Prepaid Funeral: Have money set aside or a prepaid funeral, which goes back to the death certificate before getting cash or insurance. This way, your family does not have to scrape up money, or you have to lie at the corner office till they can arrange something for you.

5) Childless Considerations: If you are like my aunt and childless, definitely make sure you have something in writing about where you want your stuff to go.

6) Decluttering: Declutter your house often, sell what you are not using, and anytime you feel like not doing it, ask yourself which family member will likely have to do it if you pass.