Ethical Will Template
A companion template for
the Bridging Generations book.

By Michael Rineman

Copyright @2024 by Jennifer and Michael Rineman
All Rights Reserved
Published in the United States by Otterly Captivating Books.
info@OtterlyCaptivating.com

Acknowledgment
In the creation of this book, a journey both personal and profound, I have been fortunate to have the support and inspiration of many, but there is one individual whose influence and support has been particularly pivotal: Terri Chapman.
Terri, you were the spark that ignited the idea for this book. Your insights and perspectives on the significance of ethical wills opened my eyes to a world of deep reflection and legacy. 
Throughout not only the development of this book but also through numerous challenging moments in my life, your support has been unwavering. In times of doubt and difficulty, your wisdom and friendship have been a source of strength and guidance. You have been more than a friend; you have been a confidante, a mentor, and a cornerstone in my life.
Your ability to listen, to understand, and to offer counsel has not only enriched my life but has also deeply influenced the pages of this book. The lessons learned from our conversations and your unyielding support have left an indelible mark on every chapter.
Terri, for all the moments you've been there, for the encouragement, the laughs, the shoulder to lean on, and for the invaluable insights you've shared, I am deeply grateful. This book is not just a reflection of my thoughts but also a testament to the enduring friendship and bond we share. Thank you for being a friend I can always count on.

Table of Contents
How to Use this Online Template
Introduction
Key Values
Beliefs
Hopes for Future Generations' Beliefs
Life Lessons and Experiences
Major Life Events
Challenges and Triumphs
Wisdom for Future Challenges
Closing Thoughts on Life's Journey
Family and Friends
Advice on Relationships
Hopes and Wishes for the Future
Closing Reflections
For Family and Friends
For the World
Wisdom and Advice
Closing Thoughts
General Advice
Specific Advice for Individuals
Reflections on Life and Death
Closing Remarks
Addendum (Optional)

How to Use this Online Template
Download or Copy the Template: Depending on the options available, you can download the template to your computer or make a copy of it in your preferred word processing software.
Writing Your Ethical Will: Use the structure and prompts provided in the book as a guide. The template is formatted to reflect the sections outlined in the book, providing you with a clear and organized way to input your reflections.
Saving and Revising: One of the advantages of using a word processor is the ability to save your work and return to it at any time. This makes it easier to write your ethical will over multiple sessions, reflecting and revising as you go.

Tips for Using the Online Template
Regularly Save Your Work: Ensure that you frequently save your document to avoid losing any progress.
Consider Privacy: If you’re writing personal or sensitive information, make sure to keep your document secure.
Printing a Final Copy: Once you have completed your ethical will, you may choose to print a final copy for a more traditional presentation or for safekeeping. Or use it as your guide to hand-write your responses in this book for a more personal touch.
Conclusion
Using an online template can streamline the process of writing and revising your ethical will, making it more accessible and adaptable to your needs. Whether you prefer the tactile feeling of pen on paper or the convenience of a digital format, what matters most is the sincerity and thoughtfulness of your words. 
Please note: this template is intended to be used alongside this book. It is not to be distributed or shared with others for wider use.

Your Introduction

Introduction

The Importance of Legacy

Your Life Story

Family and Heritage

Career and Passions

Philosophical and Spiritual Journey

Key Relationships

Life Challenges and Triumphs

Connecting to the Reader

Core Values and Beliefs 

Key Values
Identifying Personal Values

Stories Illustrating Values

Evolution of Values Over Time

Beliefs
Core Beliefs

Influence of Beliefs on Actions

Beliefs about Life’s Big Questions

Hopes for Future Generations' Beliefs

Closing Reflection on Values and Beliefs

Life Lessons and Experience 

Life Lessons and Experiences

Major Life Events
Defining Moments

Lessons from Each Event

Turning Points

Challenges and Triumphs
Overcoming Obstacles

Celebrating Successes

Resilience and Perseverance

Mistakes and Regrets

Wisdom for Future Challenges
Advice for Overcoming Difficulties

Encouragement and Support

The Value of Experience

Closing Thoughts on Life's Journey
Reflecting on the Journey

Connecting Lessons to Values and Beliefs

Love and Relationships 

Family and Friends
Expressions of Love

Acknowledging Key Relationships

Gratitude and Appreciation

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Advice on Relationships
Lessons in Love and Friendship

The Importance of Relationships

Guidance for Future Relationships

Personal Stories of Love and Friendship

Hopes and Wishes for the Future
Aspirations for Loved Ones

Legacy of Love

Closing Reflections
The Central Role of Relationships

Final Message of Love

Hopes and Wishes for the Future 

For Family and Friends
Individual Wishes for Loved Ones

Messages of Encouragement and Hope

Aspirations for Children and Grandchildren

Continuation of Family Traditions and Values

For the World
Wishes for Society and Humanity

Vision for the Future

Wisdom and Advice
Guidance for Navigating the Future

Encouragement for Personal Contributions

Closing Thoughts
Reflection on Change and Progress

Final Wishes and Blessings

Sharing Wisdom and Advice 

General Advice
Life Principles

Insights on Living Well

Navigating Life's Challenges

The Value of Continuous Learning

Specific Advice for Individuals
Personalized Messages

Career and Professional Guidance

Ethical and Moral Guidance

Reflections on Life and Death
Philosophy on Life

Thoughts on Aging and Mortality

Leaving a Legacy

Closing Remarks 

Closing Remarks
A Message of Hope and Continuity

Addendum (Optional)
Photos or Mementos