Next year we will celebrate 100 years of formally recognizing the contributions of the Black community in this country starting with Negro History Week. The celebration of acknowledging and teaching the impact of the Black people in this country began in 1926. As Black people, we knew we could not rely on anyone else to show us our value. With the massacre in Tulsa as an attack on Black economic development, we faced the truth of Frederick Douglass’ words in 1857, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.” At this time, we are confronted with the reality that our story, Black History, is being deleted from the history of the United States. If the story of our enslavement and the historic, systematic oppression is not told, the facts of the comparison of the racial wealth gap are not presented in context. Yet, we cannot rely upon someone else to tell our story. We must continue to build our narrative. As a Black woman, whose parents were educators, I grew up understanding the great importance of knowing our past. My mother, who taught Black History, further affirmed that it is our responsibility to know our story. As we know, we have overcome amazing obstacles. When we remember what we have overcome and look at the obstacles we are currently facing, there is no comparison. We are more than conquerors. And we will continue to be successful. Our story has not come to an end. Our story is valid whether it is told or hushed. AND we have the responsibility of continuing to build our history and our legacy. Individually and collectively, we are building our story and transforming the world for ourselves and others. Life and Legacy Counselors is an estate planning attorney that supports the development of strategic planning for the family that impacts multiple generations. The opportunity to help families secure the legacy and the vision that they have for the people they love is a huge responsibility for the individuals we serve. We know that through estate planning, we are strengthening communities, one family at a time. We know that a vision to build multigenerational wealth is impactful for all that are connected. We know that we are able to strengthen our heirs, whether they are legally or biologically connected, or love related. We are experiencing blatant opposition to providing access and opportunities to diverse communities who have been denied access for centuries. The historic disregard for equal opportunity that started being addressed in the 1960’s through legal and constitutional recognition, is now prohibited. The recent proclamations forbidding access to women and diverse communities to opportunities are not veiled roadblocks, but direct. Yet again, we know this energy, and we have seen this enemy before. We were not defeated before and will not be defeated now. Thriving in the face of adversity, inequity, racism and sexism is what we have had to do for centuries and will continue to do. Whenever there is a crisis, we know that there is a challenge and an opportunity. I am excited about the challenge that we face. I am excited about the renewed commitment to our mission and purpose. I am excited that we will continue to stand with the lyrics of the Black National Anthem and Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on 'til victory is won.

It’s a new beginning! It’s the start of another new year. I have had the privilege of contributing to The Washington Informer for more than a decade, and I am still excited to provide estate planning tips and thoughts with the start of the new year. As we mark this significant change in the world with the turning of the calendar, there is a truth we can be certain of: Life is dynamic and change is consistent. It does not allow us to focus completely on Jan. 1 and disregard the rest of the calendar. It doesn’t relegate change to the alignment of the calendar. As folks say, “life be life-ing,” and it is not based upon the calendar. In the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of sharing information about the loss of my mother, the blending of my family with my second marriage, and the addition of my two beautiful granddaughters. None of these things happened at the beginning of the year. Yet, I embrace the measurement of time, and I am inspired by the change of the calendar as metrics. We can choose to use time as either a resource or as a constraint. We can celebrate the measurement of time while considering all the opportunities that time provides for us. I choose to celebrate the start of the new year by setting my focus on the opportunities for new beginnings. At my church, we start the year with the Daniel Fast. The Daniel Fast is a 21-day commitment to focus on enhancing spiritual discipline, prayer and seeking wisdom. Without even realizing it, we often use food to provide us with emotional and physical comfort. But during the fast, we refrain from certain foods to challenge our minds and bodies to rely on the great comforter, Jesus. It requires growth and focus. For me, this is a kickstart. While the calendar should not be the only thing that creates the commitment for growth, it is an opportunity to recharge and reset after the holiday season. While many people do not achieve their New Year’s resolution goals that they set for themselves at the beginning of the year, we ought not let that be the reason to eliminate the goals. I continue to create goals that include discipline and progressive enhancement that are modified slightly each year. I celebrate the ability to set goals with action plans that allow me to be better. A goal without a plan is a dream. As an estate planning attorney, I work with people who set goals and dreams for the impact they want to have on the lives of the people they love. Our goal is to create multigenerational strategies for wealth creation and preservation. We work with families to develop checks and balances for their loved ones, because we understand how important it is for families to have the support necessary to impact their capacity to move forward and achieve new heights. As an estate administration attorney, I work with families helping to unravel the aftermath of people who didn’t plan. Over the years, I’ve seen the devastation caused by a lack of planning. In addition to grief, these families were often left wondering what their loved ones would have wanted. The lack of instruction and clarity caused distress and conflict that could have been avoided. We take for granted many things that have significant positive or negative impact. By being thoughtful with foresight, we can have a goal with action steps that can be implemented to achieve the outcome that changes lives. As we look ahead for the new beginnings this year, let’s challenge ourselves to plan for what we desire. Let’s take this time as an opportunity to refocus, reset and plan with great intentions.

Estate planning is crucial for everyone, but it takes on added importance for single parents. In Maryland, single parents face unique challenges when it comes to ensuring their children's well-being and financial security in the event of unexpected circumstances. Effective estate planning can provide peace of mind and protect your family's future. This blog post will explore the essential components of estate planning for single parents in Maryland and how The Life and Legacy Counselors can assist in this important process. Why Estate Planning Matters for Single Parents As a single parent, you are likely the sole provider and decision-maker for your children. Having a comprehensive estate plan in place is essential for several reasons: Guardianship of Children : An estate plan allows you to designate a guardian for your minor children in case of your untimely passing. This decision ensures that your children are raised by someone you trust, rather than leaving it to the court to decide. Financial Security : Proper estate planning can help secure your children’s financial future by ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Medical Decisions : Estate planning includes creating advance medical directives, which outline your healthcare preferences if you become incapacitated. This helps ensure your wishes are honored and relieves your family of difficult decisions during emotional times. Minimizing Taxes and Fees : An effective estate plan can help reduce estate taxes and legal fees, maximizing the assets available for your children. Essential Components of Estate Planning 1. Last Will and Testament A last will and testament is a legal document that specifies how your assets will be distributed after your death. In Maryland, a will can also name a guardian for your children, making it an essential component of your estate plan. Key considerations: Choose an Executor : This person will be responsible for managing your estate, ensuring that your wishes are carried out, and handling any debts or taxes owed. Specify Asset Distribution : Clearly outline how you want your assets distributed among your heirs. 2. Guardianship Designations As a single parent, it is vital to designate a guardian for your children. This decision can be included in your will, but it’s also a good idea to discuss your choice with the prospective guardian beforehand. Consider the following factors: Values and Parenting Style : Choose someone who shares your values and parenting philosophy. Location : Ideally, the guardian should live nearby to minimize disruption in your children's lives. 3. Trusts A trust can be an effective way to manage assets for your children, especially if they are minors. By placing assets in a trust, you can specify how and when your children will receive those assets. Advantages of using a trust: Control Over Distribution : You can set specific conditions for how the assets are used, such as for education or health care. Avoiding Probate : Assets held in a trust generally do not go through probate, allowing for quicker access to funds for your children. 4. Powers of Attorney A power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. There are two main types: Durable Power of Attorney for Finances : This allows your chosen agent to manage your financial matters. Medical Power of Attorney : This grants someone the authority to make healthcare decisions for you if you cannot do so. 5. Advance Medical Directives An advance medical directive (or living will) outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care. This document can provide guidance to your family and medical providers during difficult times, ensuring that your healthcare preferences are honored. 6. Life Insurance Life insurance can be an essential part of your estate plan, particularly for single parents. The proceeds from a life insurance policy can provide financial support for your children in the event of your passing. Considerations for life insurance: Choose the Right Coverage : Assess how much coverage is needed to support your children’s needs, such as education and living expenses. Beneficiary Designations : Ensure that your children are listed as beneficiaries or that the policy allows for a trust to be set up for them. How The Life and Legacy Counselors Can Help Navigating the complexities of estate planning can be overwhelming, especially for single parents. The Life and Legacy Counselors specialize in helping families create comprehensive estate plans tailored to their unique needs. 1. Personalized Consultation Our team offers personalized consultations to understand your specific situation and goals. We take the time to listen to your concerns and explain your options, ensuring that you feel confident in your decisions. 2. Comprehensive Estate Planning We provide a complete range of estate planning services, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance medical directives. Our goal is to create a holistic estate plan that addresses all aspects of your family's needs. 3. Guardianship Assistance Designating a guardian for your children is one of the most critical decisions you will make. We can help you navigate this process, ensuring that your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable. 4. Ongoing Support Estate planning is not a one-time event; it requires regular review and updates. We provide ongoing support to ensure your estate plan evolves with your family's changing needs and circumstances. 5. Legal Expertise Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of Maryland estate law. We can guide you through any legal challenges that may arise, ensuring that your estate plan is compliant and enforceable. Secure Your Children's Future: Estate Planning for Single Parents Estate planning is a vital process for single parents in Maryland. It provides peace of mind, protects your children's future, and ensures that your wishes are honored. By taking the time to create a comprehensive estate plan, you can secure your family's well-being and financial stability. At The Life and Legacy Counselors, we are committed to helping single parents navigate the estate planning process with ease. If you’re ready to take the first step toward protecting your family’s future, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can create a legacy that reflects your values and secures your children’s well-being for years to come.

To parents, I believe the most wonderful time of the year is the back-to-school time of year. As a perpetual student and now a professor, I will say that I am also re-energized at the beginning of the school year. I love the restart of learning and focused energy on advancement. For those with minor children, I like to remind the parents to be thoughtful of the responsibilities of caring for the babies. Of course, as parents we ill always be thoughtful of caring for our children. We need to have painful thoughts when we think about what the best protective action for our children is. As an estate planning attorney, I have the difficult responsibility of discussing with parents about the possibilities of providing for their children in their incapacity or the death. It is a thought that many people find so painful that they choose not to answer the question and simply pray that nothing happens to them. I believe that our best strategy is to pray for the best and plan for the worst. I believe it is best to have a plan and tools and not need them than to need a plan and tools yet not have them. If you have minor children, the legal parents should make the decision who would have legal responsibility for the children if the legal parents are not able. This is a challenge if both legal parents are not actively engaged in the life of the child or children. However, lack of involvement does not disavow any parent of their legal rights. This is an area of great concern for many parents. When the primary parent is not able to care for their child due to death or disability, they may not want the other parent who has not been actively involved in caring or participating in the child’s life to have the primary legal responsibility. However, that is not the legally authorized answer. Unless the parent has lost his or her legal authority, there would not be a need for intervention on behalf of the court. When there is inability for the legal parents to care for minor children permanently or for a short term, the parent can identify a standby guardian. That documentation would nominate someone to act as an interim guardian until the court established the legal permanent guardianship. This would enable someone to act to make medical and educational decisions for a minor child. To provide for the child financially, a trust would be the most appropriate vehicle for preserving assets for the benefit of a child. As you cannot distribute any real property or cash directly to a child it is necessary to provide for that child through establishing a trust. In many cases, when there has been co-parenting and not a continued relationship between the parents, a parent may choose to identify someone else to support providing for the minor child financially, as a check and balance to ensure that the funds and resources are managed for the benefit of the child. Also for our almost grown children, those who are legally defined as adults but not really, we recommend that a Financial and Health Care Power of Attorney be created for the ability to continue to support our young adults. This document will allow the young people to waive their right to privacy to receive necessary financial and health care support. Additionally, for those young adults who are attending school, I recommend that they have the young person execute a Family Education Right to Privacy Act waiver. This waiver allows the school to supply the parent with the information regarding the student’s academic, financial and health matters. It is best to have the necessary tools in place to provide for your young people. Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year through planning and caring for the ones you love.

I have been in the small business/entrepreneurship movement for quite a few years now. It was more than 20 years ago that I began to appreciate the importance of small business and entrepreneurial efforts to be the transformation of the Black community. We know that there has been the racial wage gap in the United States. We know that enslaved people were denied wages in order to build wealth for the business owners. We know that oppressive wages and denial of employment opportunities were strategies used to grow profits on the backs of Black people through Jim Crow era and beyond. We know that by creating enterprises of our own we acknowledge our own value and the value of the people in our community and are able to build wealth. However, it is not without a struggle. Black entrepreneurship is not an easy road to travel. We know that most Black businesses do not have access to the resources and funds afforded other communities with historic wealth and access to wealth, either through direct racist policies or through years of economic oppression. We know that most Black businesses do not have access to opportunities that are afforded to other communities. We know that many of the relationships that begat business are not afforded and are often blatantly denied Black businesses. We know that direct harm is aimed at successful Black businesses as evidenced by Black Wall Street in Tulsa. What we know is that we still take on the efforts of the struggle. We know that it is the collective strength and honor that allows us to mobilize. Over 20 years ago, I became a part of the Black Chamber movement. We know that being the voice of the voiceless was important. Black business is important because we know that it is the way in which we raise the economic realities of the Black community. Black businesses employ Black people. Through the Black chambers we can bring information and resources to the Black community that truly are effective in starting, growing and saving Black businesses. Access to information is vital in being able to survive. I am privileged to say that I was involved in the creation of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. The U.S. Black Chambers has been the voice of Black business for the past 15 years. As we have experienced the pandemic, thousands of businesses were dependent on information regarding the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans that were transformational for the small business owner. The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., was the vehicle that provided information to thousands of Black businesses that struggled to survive. The collaborative efforts of the Black business community are vital to make voices heard. As Frederick Douglass stated hundreds of years ago, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never has and it never will.” The collaboration of Black businesses to fight injustice and inequity is necessary to fight evils of unrestricted power. I have been privileged as the last incorporator of the U.S. Black Chambers still serving. I was proud to expend my time, talent and resources as a board member and the corporate counsel for the U.S. Black Chambers from the inception until today. It is with great pride that I step down to allow for the next advocate to serve. As Ron Busby Sr., president and CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., states, to have a strong America, we must have a strong Black America. To have a strong Black America, we need to have strong Black businesses. To have strong Black businesses we must have strong Black chambers. We as a people must stand together against injustice, inequity and fight for the strong America. We are better together. 

Blended families, where one or both partners bring children from previous relationships, are increasingly common. However, the unique family dynamics can make estate planning particularly challenging. Ensuring that all members of a blended family are considered and provided for requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of estate law. Aimee Griffin and her team at Life & Legacy Counselors, some of Maryland’s most trusted estate planning lawyers, specialize in navigating these complex situations. This post explores key considerations for estate planning in blended families and how Life & Legacy Counselors can help ensure your family’s future is secured. Understanding the Unique Needs of Blended Families Blended families face unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. There may be concerns about providing for biological children while also including stepchildren, dealing with ex-spouses, and managing the inheritance expectations of different family members. Effective estate planning must address these needs and potential conflicts to prevent future disputes and ensure that all family members are treated fairly. Key Estate Planning Considerations for Blended Families 1. Defining Clear Objectives The first step in estate planning for blended families is to define clear objectives. What are your goals for your estate? How do you want your assets distributed among your children, stepchildren, and current spouse? Establishing your objectives upfront will guide the estate planning process and help your attorney create a plan that aligns with your wishes. 2. Use of Trusts Trusts are particularly useful tools in estate planning for blended families. They offer flexibility and control over how assets are distributed and when. For example, a trust can provide for a surviving spouse during their lifetime while preserving the principal for distribution to children from a previous marriage after the spouse’s death. This can help manage different family members' expectations and needs. 3. Guardianship Considerations Deciding on guardianship for minor children is critical. In blended families, there might be different wishes regarding the guardianship of biological children versus stepchildren. It’s important to have these discussions openly and to make legal arrangements that reflect these decisions. 4. Providing for a Spouse Without Disinheriting Children Balancing the needs of a new spouse and existing children can be tricky. Life insurance policies, for example, can provide financial support for a surviving spouse, while the rest of the estate can be structured to benefit your children from previous relationships. This approach ensures that both parties are taken care of according to your wishes. 5. Regular Updates to Estate Plans As family circumstances change, so too should your estate plan. Regular reviews and updates are crucial, especially in blended families where relationships and dynamics can evolve. Changes in the law should also prompt a review of your estate plan to ensure compliance and optimal structuring. The Role of Life & Legacy Counselors Expert Legal Guidance Aimee Griffin and her team offer expert legal guidance tailored to the unique needs of blended families. With a deep understanding of Maryland estate law and a compassionate approach, they can navigate the complex dynamics of your family situation. Personalized Estate Planning Life & Legacy Counselors provide personalized estate planning services, designing plans that consider all family members' needs and wishes. They ensure that your estate plan reflects your specific family dynamics and goals. Conflict Mitigation One of the key benefits of working with experienced attorneys like those at Life & Legacy Counselors is their ability to foresee potential conflicts and address them in the estate plan. This proactive approach can prevent family disputes and litigation after your passing. Education and Communication Life & Legacy Counselors also emphasize the importance of education and open communication within families about estate planning. They can facilitate family meetings to discuss the estate plan and ensure that everyone understands and agrees with the proposed arrangements, which can prevent misunderstandings and disputes. Ongoing Support and Revision Estate planning is not a one-time event, especially in blended families. Life & Legacy Counselors offer ongoing support and periodic reviews of your estate plan to ensure that it remains aligned with your life circumstances and the latest legal standards. Conclusion Estate planning for blended families requires careful consideration and expert legal guidance to navigate the unique challenges and dynamics involved. With the help of Aimee Griffin and her team at Life & Legacy Counselors, families in Maryland can create comprehensive estate plans that ensure fairness, minimize potential conflicts, and secure their legacy for all family members. By addressing the specific needs of blended families and using tools like trusts and life insurance effectively, you can achieve peace of mind knowing that your family’s future is protected. If you are part of a blended family and need to begin or update your estate planning, contact Life & Legacy Counselors for a consultation. Their expertise and personalized approach can help you navigate the complexities of your family situation and ensure that your estate plan meets your objectives. For more information and to schedule a consultation, visit Life & Legacy Counselors . Let their team help you create an estate plan that reflects your unique family dynamics and protects the interests of all your loved ones.

It is July already! That means we are halfway through the year! It was just six months ago that we had a new vision of what goals we wanted to achieve! It was the beginning of the year that we promised to get our affairs in order, including our physical and financial health. We know that getting ourselves financially and physically in order is not a destination but a journey. We know many former school athletes who had six-pack abs and were incredibly muscle-bound who became barrels of blubber with a lack of effort and focus on maintaining the standard that we have achieved. Our goals and priorities regularly change. We have the privilege of making the commitment regarding how we want to set our goals and priorities. We just need to remember that our lives, like our bodies, are dynamic as well as our capacity to maintain and invest in the maintain. The relationships that we have today are not the relationships that we had yesterday and may not be the relationships we have tomorrow. People change. They move. They marry people we may or may not like. They get sick. They die. All these incidents change our relationships. I am startled by the number of calls that we have received when my answer has had to be that it is too late to take any initiative-taking steps at this point. We just need to wait until the transition happens. I have received quite a few calls that have sought guidance on how to manage the financial affairs of a person who no longer was responsive or was fighting dementia. A very real standard to sign any legal document is that someone must be of “sound mind.” That sound mind standard is not a truly clear black-and-white line but differentiated based upon the legal purpose. Signing testamentary documents has a different standard than signing a contract. The understanding of the information is the underlying principle. We, unfortunately, receive calls asking us to come to the hospital to have documents executed for people who are terminally ill. Many times, the courts have challenged documents that are executed close to the date of death. This, has often, created conflicts and controversy that affect relationships and families and significant legal fees that could have been avoided if our affairs had been in order. Far too often we wait unnecessarily. I encourage people to appreciate that there is no downside to planning in any situation. Planning for the worst while hoping for the best is the strategy that always leaves an individual, families, businesses, and communities in the best position. Alternatively, we find ourselves in situations that create reactions that are not prepared for with resources that do not honor and respect relationships that are important to us. We have a responsibility to the people that we love and those who love us to flow with the dynamic lives with which we are blessed. We are excited to share that responsibility with you to create the plan and build the legacy that you would like for your family. 

Guardianship and estate planning are essential yet challenging tasks for parents with minor children. These processes ensure that children's futures are secure and well-protected should anything happen to their parents. The Life and Legacy Counselors specialize in guiding families through these complex processes, providing peace of mind and a secure future for their loved ones. Understanding Guardianship and Estate Planning Guardianship involves appointing a responsible adult to care for minor children if their parents are unable to do so. Estate planning, on the other hand, involves making arrangements for the management and distribution of one's assets upon death or incapacitation. Both are crucial for ensuring that children are cared for and that their financial and personal needs are met. Challenges in Guardianship and Estate Planning 1. Emotional Complexity The thought of not being there for your children is heart-wrenching. Deciding on a guardian requires deep consideration of who will best care for your children, not just in terms of basic needs but also in maintaining their emotional well-being and values. These decisions are often fraught with emotional complexity and family dynamics. 2. Legal Procedures The legal procedures involved in appointing a guardian and setting up an estate plan are intricate. This includes drafting wills, setting up trusts, and ensuring that all documents comply with state laws. Parents must navigate a maze of legal requirements to ensure that their wishes are honored and that there are no loopholes that could lead to disputes or mismanagement of their estates. 3. Financial Planning Effective estate planning goes beyond drafting a will. It involves detailed financial planning to ensure that children are financially secure. This includes setting up trusts, choosing the right type of life insurance, and making decisions about investments. Parents must ensure that their children will have access to necessary funds for education, healthcare, and daily living expenses. 4. Maintaining Benefit Eligibility For families who may rely on government benefits, it’s critical to structure their estate plans in a way that does not jeopardize their children’s eligibility for these benefits. This involves understanding and complying with specific rules and regulations to protect the financial security of the children. 5. Regular Updates Estate plans need to be regularly updated to reflect changes in family dynamics, financial situations, and legal requirements. Keeping an estate plan current is essential to ensure it remains effective and relevant. How The Life and Legacy Counselors Can Help Expert Legal Guidance The Life and Legacy Counselors offer expert legal guidance to navigate the complexities of guardianship and estate planning. They understand state-specific laws and ensure that all documents are correctly drafted and legally sound. Their expertise helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures that parents’ wishes are effectively carried out. Personalized Planning Each family is unique, and so are their needs and circumstances. The Life and Legacy Counselors provide personalized planning services tailored to each family’s specific situation. They take the time to understand the family's values, needs, and goals, creating a customized plan that addresses all aspects of guardianship and estate planning. Comprehensive Financial Advice In addition to legal advice, The Life and Legacy Counselors offer comprehensive financial planning services. They assist in setting up trusts, choosing appropriate life insurance policies, and making sound investment decisions. Their holistic approach ensures that children are financially secure and that funds are available for their future needs. Ensuring Benefit Eligibility For families relying on government benefits, The Life and Legacy Counselors help structure estate plans to maintain eligibility for these benefits. They are well-versed in the specific rules and regulations and provide strategies to protect the financial interests of the children. Ongoing Support and Updates Life is dynamic, and estate plans must evolve with changes in family circumstances and legal landscapes. The Life and Legacy Counselors offer ongoing support to ensure that estate plans are regularly reviewed and updated. This proactive approach ensures that the plans remain effective and in line with the family’s current situation. Conclusion Guardianship and estate planning are critical components of responsible parenting, ensuring that minor children are well cared for and financially secure in the event of their parents' absence. While the process can be complex and emotionally challenging, The Life and Legacy Counselors provide the expertise and personalized support needed to navigate these tasks effectively. Contact Us Today If you are a parent of minor children and need assistance with guardianship and estate planning, contact The Life and Legacy Counselors. Their expert guidance and comprehensive services will help you create a secure and well-structured plan for your children’s future. Visit The Life and Legacy Counselors today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards ensuring your children's well-being and financial security.

I love celebrating my father and the opportunity to celebrate the men who serve in fatherly roles irrespective of the legal and/or biological relationship. I am blessed to watch my son who takes such pride in caring for his daughters, even doing their hair. Father’s Day is pretty awesome when we stand back and pay attention to the amazing relationships that we have with men who are committed to doing their best to impart wisdom to the next generation. As an estate planning attorney, I want to encourage those folks to take all of the legal action necessary to support those they love. We often have relationships that we could categorize as “it’s complicated.” Many times, the adage of “mother’s baby, father’s maybe” applies. However, when we know who our children are biologically or legally, we should take steps to document the relationship. Sometimes that may mean adding the father’s name to the birth certificate. Unfortunately, we have had situations where the father’s name wasn’t added to the birth certificate and the child, after the father has passed away, must take extra steps to make plans for their dad, because the law does not just give permission to anyone who wants to serve. Sometimes that may mean creating a Last Will & Testament or a Trust to identify what the relationships are in your life. The identification of the relationship or how you want someone to be treated in your life is monumental. There are children who are biologically established but are not the children who have stepped up to serve or minimally to show you honor and respect. With that clarity in relationships, we are able to establish peace and harmony. My perception of the father is based upon my experience with God as my Father creating a standard and my earthly father seeking to provide an example of love, strength, and peace. I truly believe that those fathers whether biological, legal or bonus, seek to leave their loved ones with an abundance of love, strength, and peace. This can be done by providing a legacy of clarity. This can be done by providing a legacy of purpose. This can be done by providing a legacy of forethought. We know that the confusion provides space for arguments and lawsuits. We know that the lack of purpose creates lack of direction. We know that with a lack of vision, our people perish. When we know better, we can do better! I encourage the fathers to do and be mindful of that which is their greatest assignment. The assignment is to train up a child in the way that they should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it! Again, the proverb doesn’t just say your legal or biological child but “a child.” This instruction is an opportunity to impact the world. We impact so many and can be world changers by creating a legacy of love. Life & Legacy Counselors are committed to supporting the creation of legacy of love, strength, and peace. We celebrate with you the love that you are building and sharing.