Death and Taxes
On November 13, 1789, founding father Benjamin Franklin wrote a letter that included what many believe to be his last great quote, “Our new Constitution is now established, and has an appearance that promises permanency; but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”
Although the concept of pairing death and taxes certainly existed prior to this writing, the publication of Franklin’s papers in 1817 catapulted the statement to the forefront of American pop culture.
Once we reach adulthood, taxes are a constant in our lives, whether we’re paying sales tax at the grocery store, filing quarterly tax reports, or meeting with our favorite CPA each spring. Death, on the other hand, seems to touch our lives less frequently, but certainly more dramatically.
Statistically, the average adult will be responsible for making final arrangements for a loved one approximately 1.6 times during their lifetime. They will typically be in their 50s when this responsibility first presents itself and will likely be making arrangements for a parent.
Death is an inevitability that will touch us all. As such, wise individuals prepare for this event by having open conversations with their loved ones and taking the time to plan ahead with a funeral home. Pre-planning allows you to detail your wishes in writing and participate in all of the decisions that need to be made, such as purchasing a plot in the cemetery of your choice or designing a headstone.
As you begin the pre-planning process, it is important to remember that you are not just planning for yourself. You are making arrangements and decisions that will greatly affect your loved ones.
Whether you’re blindsided by an unexpected death or ready to pre-plan for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help. Contact us today to begin this important process.
The Cremation Center of Southern Utah is located at 1316 S. 400 E., Ste. A3, in St. George. Call us at (435) 986-9100, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @CremationCenterSU.
Submitted by W. Russell Atkin, Licensed Funeral Director/Owner
Benjamin Franklin Source:
https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/benjamin-franklins-last-great-quote-and-the-constitution
