A Clear September Morning: Why We Plan for the Unthinkable

By Melinda Gustafson Gervasi
A Clear September Morning: Why We Plan for the Unthinkable
By Melinda Gustafson Gervasi
September 11, 2026

Every year as September 11th approaches, my mind drifts back to that morning in Madison. It was what locals often call "Chamber of Commerce weather"—a crisp, brilliant blue sky, perfectly calm, the kind of autumn day where everything feels right with the world.  And then, in an instant, tragedy struck.  My grandmother said it shook her the same was as the bombing of Pearl Harbor. 

I once called Washington, D.C. home for a three year period of time, and work assignments in the mid-1990s allowed me to spend substantial time in New York City. The news felt painfully close.  I knew people living in those cities, walking those streets, and event working at The Pentagon. September 11th taught all of us a heavy, irreversible truth: life can turn on a dime, without warning or room for preparation.

As an estate planning attorney, I talk with clients every day about preparing for the unexpected. While we cannot control catastrophic events, we can control how prepared our loved ones are if the unthinkable happens. Estate planning is ultimately not about paperwork or legal formalities; it is a profound act of quiet love and protection.  When you put an estate plan in place, you are giving your family three essential protections:

Clear Guidance in a Crisis: A Healthcare Power of Attorney and Financial Power of Attorney ensure that if you are suddenly incapacitated, someone you trust explicitly can step in immediately to make critical medical decisions and manage daily obligations without court delay.

Protection for Minor Children: Naming guardians in a Will ensures that, should the worst occur, your children are immediately cared for by the people you chose—not left in legal limbo during an already traumatic moment.

Order Amid Emotional Chaos: When grief hits, trying to navigate complex legal procedures, court oversight, or family disputes creates immense unnecessary burden. A clear plan acts as a roadmap, allowing your family space to grieve and heal rather than manage chaos.

We often put off creating or updating an estate plan because life feels peaceful, predictable, and full of clear blue skies. But the true purpose of a plan is to stand firm when those skies suddenly change. Taking the time to put your wishes in writing is not morbid—it is one of the most practical, compassionate gifts you can leave for those you hold dear.


Image by M. Gustafson Gervasi. 2023 - NYC skyline as seen from Hoboken, New Jersey.

Remember, a blog is not legal advice. It is meant to spark thought and reflection. It is best to speak with an attorney in your home state for advice specific to your situation. Thanks for reading, and be well. Help power most posts with the Buy Me a Coffee icon!

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