Sometimes I’m compelled to write a PSA, because the consequences of some tragedies are avoidable. Too often I see a teen or young parent in their 30’s or 40’s die from a tragic accident, cancer or worse. Their families deserve compassion, indeed. In every way. As a resident of Sandy Hook, I understand compassion and urge everyone to be kind, be charitable and love your neighbor. Love heals.
As a financial advisor, I’m compelled to help families and businesses fortify their lives with better planning. Term life insurance is an easy way to do that at very little expense for our younger generation. After a tragedy, GoFundMe or other charitable fundraising can help. However, raising tens of thousands of dollars requires great effort. That effort is commendable and important for the community’s healing. Don’t stop. However, equally admirable is the effort an individual takes to research and obtain term life insurance for themselves and for family protection. Far too many young parents are taking too much risk, instead of paying $10 to $25 per month on a term life policy for each parent. There are riders also that will cover their children, if desired.
Fair enough that dying young isn’t likely – very little risk. However, the consequences are severe. Yes. Life insurance companies make a profit – especially on term life insurance – but they also provide an easy way for all of us insured folks to pool our resources in case a tragedy befalls any one of us at a terrible time. It’s the right thing to do at little cost. Maybe then the fundraising can be assigned to furthering a favorite charity or cause in memory of the ones we love.
Next is a little bit of tough love.
Not everyone qualifies for life insurance, but most of us can get it when we’re young. Don’t let that opportunity slip by. Get a quote. See what your options are and make a conscious decision. Then if you have the courage, tell the people you love in your life what you decided or let the insurance speak for itself. If you decide against insurance, please write your decision down for your children (family and friends) to read when they’re old enough to understand. No judgment. That’s simply called taking responsibility for your life. Choose love.