Joanne Horst
Anticipation and excitement were palpable as Women Sharing Hope (WSH) hosted a full house for their event, “Are You Prepared to Be Left Behind?” The gathering brought together men and women eager to delve into the critical aspects of end-of-life planning, extending far beyond the confines of a simple will or trust.
Catherine Simpson, the visionary director of Women Sharing Hope, set the tone for the event with her opening remarks, setting the stage for an afternoon that would leave a lasting impact on everyone. The Robson Ranch Liberty Belles and the WSH team hosted each table, and a resounding “thank you” is owed for their pivotal role in making this event an overwhelming success.
One highlight was the widow panel discussion led by Bobbi Stringer, the head of the WSH Widows Ministry. Six brave widows shared their heart-wrenching stories of navigating the aftermath of their spouses’ passing. The tales were simultaneously sorrowful, thought-provoking, and inspiring, prompting attendees to confront the harsh realities of life and the imperative need for comprehensive planning.
Mary Alice Benton and Tony Kura delivered a captivating skit that injected humor into the otherwise sobering topic. The performance underscored the difficulties of initiating conversations about the inevitable and the necessity of overcoming the reluctance to discuss these matters with loved ones.
Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney Travis Weaver educated the audience on the legal intricacies and criteria for choosing between a will and a trust. With an engaging delivery, Weaver covered vital aspects, such as how Texas law handles property distribution in the absence of a clear plan and the complexities surrounding blended family dynamics. The audience was so engrossed that the Q&A session overflowed with inquiries, a testament to the relevance and urgency of the information being shared.
Attendees completed a Preparedness Report Card, a simple yet impactful tool prompting self-reflection on their state of readiness. Conversations with participants revealed a shared sentiment—a realization that there is still much work to be done to ensure a smoother transition for their loved ones when the time comes.
Pastor Kim Broadstreet of First Baptist Church of Ponder delivered a powerful conclusion to the event, sharing his personal journey of faith and leading the crowd in a heartfelt prayer. The spiritual perspective added a profound layer to the event, encouraging attendees to not only prepare their worldly affairs, but also to reflect on where they would spend eternity.
As the echoes of Pastor Kim’s prayer lingered in the air, those fortunate enough to attend couldn’t help but ponder the invaluable insights gained. Those who attended were presented with a comprehensive handbook, which covers a myriad of issues as part of one’s preparation.
Handbooks will be available for a suggested donation of $20 at the clubhouse on March 29 at 10 a.m. before the WSH Good Friday musical drama presentation. Or you may contact Linda Smith at 940-393-1045 for a handbook.