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Today, I received a call from the niece (Gloria) of one of my dearest clients only to learn that my client, Ann, had passed approximately 10 days ago - - but no one knew. You see she was a senior in her early 70's who lived alone after the death of her husband. Additionally, she lost her only son years before, to a mugging over his up sports car.
Alone, she fell victim to a heart attack with no one available to assist her - ultimately passing away.Ann was spunky and full of life. She made sure that when my wife and I were in Tampa that we would attend a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game with her. . . and she would make sure we had the best seats in the house. Ann, easily had one the world's sweetest dispositions. She loved all people, but most of all, she loved to share her life's experiences.I tell you this because when I got the call today, Gloria said to me, "I have no idea why I am calling you, but I am the niece of Ann and I found not one, but a few of your cards in her dresser drawer. I had no choice but to assume you must have been important to her." She continued, by saying that she had confirmed that thought, when she discovered a note that said; "My Dearest Gloria, if you are reading this letter it is important that you call Robert, he will know what to do!
"You see Gloria was unaware of the amazing gift of this beautiful woman. Not only did Ann care for all of her own final arrangements in advance, but she left behind the most precious expression of love, a life insurance policy so that Gloria could live without the additional financial burdens.
It is on days like this, where once again I can appreciate the value of what we do as Insurance & Financial Professionals and the role we play in the lives of those left behind.Ann's life was certainly not lived in vain. She made sure to promote her words of wisdom from life to most anyone that would listen, and she did so again with her passing.
When you read "in between the lines", her underlying message was simple; "Tomorrow is promised to no one-- so share your wisdom with everyone that will listen. Treasure all your moments, they are not nearly as long as we may believe. In the end, she loved her family and family is everything.
RIP - Ms. Ann!
