Many of wise men and women have quoted these words. On that note I have scheduled an appointment for next week. My husband and I will once again be meeting with an attorney for estate planning. Because if we fail to plan, then we will be planning to fail.
“By failing to plan, you are preparing to fail.”
Ben Franklin
The Importance of Planning
My husband is a planner. He strategically made career moves which resulted in thoughtful planning for our future. And his planning has been paying off. We, in our fifties, are somewhat retired. We retired from our day jobs years ago, but still have a successful company, which together manage. This lifestyle has its rewards, but also has been a detriment to our well-being.
Years ago, when our daughters were minors, we did estate planning. It was important to plan in case we had an early demise. Thank goodness we are still here! Today, our daughters are adults and we have relocated to Florida to live out our retirement. Next week we will be meeting with an attorney once again to redo our estate planning. It is important to know that each state has individual requirements which dictate how our wishes are carried out upon our impending earthly death.
If you fail to plan…
Planning for anything is important and often times even with the best intentions people fail to plan. My husband’s parents did estate planning and my parents did not. Both sets of parents have assets to protect. When estate planning is done it gives assurance that our wishes will be carried out. We will be able to leave a legacy, while our personal care is maintained.
The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux
If a parent moves into a retirement community and fails to properly plan ahead, they could encounter trouble down the road. Even with the best intentions the road can be a bit bumpy. Potholes may appear through seasons of change and unexpected obstacles might suddenly appear. Careful, advanced planning will pave the way for a smooth journey.
Without advance planning decisions can be made with good intentions and still have consequences. There is much to consider and rules which need applied. Ignorance is not bliss and knowledge is key.
Failure happens even after planning.
Even with the best intentions plans change. Failure may look differently for different people. And, different people have different intentions.
Although my husband’s parents did their planning, his mother passed away and his father remarried. This calls for more planning. My husband had a couple conversations with his father about his new plans. This new arrangement effects the original intentions his parents have made for their family. We need to trust that his father is mindful of how this new relationship will impact his legacy and respect his choices.
The only thing necessary for triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
Edmund Burke
Failed Plans Leading to Success
Failing to plan doesn’t always lead to failure. As humans we will make mistakes and it is how we choose to deal with our good intentions gone bad. Fortunately, through redemption there is hope. By living out the commandments and trusting in God we can find peace even through our poor choices.
Failure can be difficult. We can cast blame on others or live with guilt and remorse. But God doesn’t want us to live that way. The road doesn’t have to lead to hell. We can choose our destination. And, the choices we make will determine our path.
By accepting and processing our good intentions gone bad, while having a grateful heart peace is available. But keep in mind a little planning goes a long way.
Get all the advice you can, and you will succeed; without it you will fail.
Proverbs 15:22 GNT
