Although
no background information is available on the author of this ethical will,
I surmised that this father is in his 60's.*
Dear Anna,
Peter and Eddie,
Although I have recently been diagnosed
as a man in "tip-top condition" by Dr. Lewis, I am nonetheless reminded
that time is still passing, and in a couple of years I will have to retire
from commercial farming. Don't worry; I'm leaving farming with little
in the way of regrets. It has provided your mother and me with enough money
to retire.
While tobacco and dairy farming gave
my grandfather, father, and me a solid, respectable way to care for our
families, I know each of you has other plans for your future. I want to
say that I am not disappointed in any of my children for choosing other
ways of life. You have each made me proud in your own way.
I am a quiet man, and I know I have
never offered much in the way of spiritual guidance. However, I hope that
my manner of living has served as a living example of my own moral code.
As you know, this family has had its
roots here at Otter Creek since your great-grandpa Jack settled it way
back in 1867. I certainly don't expect you to keep the farm; I realize
that even little Eddie will follow his big brother and sister to the city.
My only request is that the house and the 15 surrounding acres be preserved
as a family vacation spot. I want you to bring your children to relax,
fish, swim, and have fun pursuing life's simple things, but most importantly,
to stick together as a family.
I love you all,
Dad
*From Flashman, Robert, M.
Flashman, L. Noble, S. Quick. Ethical
Wills: Passing on Treasures of the Heart The Forum for
Family and Consumer Issues 3.3 (1998): 33 pars. 29 December 1998.
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