Over the years we have met with a number of clients who, in one way or another, are starting over in life. Some of their circumstances include: a) death of a spouse, b) divorce/separation, c) serious illness/personal injury, and d) sudden retirement. Any one of these cataclysmic events can precipitate a shocking jolt to everyday lives. When faced with sudden and jarring changes as well as the innumerable adjustments these changes entail planning for the future, either personally or financially, can be a daunting and laborious undertaking. Unfortunately, we usually cannot choose an alternate course!

The loss of a spouse, either through death or divorce, is an unhinging event which often leaves one questioning his/her purpose as well as abilities. Decisions and burdens which used to be shared are suddenly carried alone. Simply facing each new day can be a daunting task; decision making can be formidable!

Likewise, a serious illness or personal injury can be equally devastating and traumatizing as an individual's daily routine is capsized by new realities and limitations which prevent him/her from enjoying regular employment and leisure activities. Once again, purpose and identity are questioned as the daily fabric of life seemingly unravels before one's eyes. Family life is strained, or at the very least, challenged.

Sudden retirement can also find us adrift as daily routines and heretofore familiar lifestyles are abruptly tossed! Once again, purpose and identity often become elusive as we struggle in search of new applications for our time and energies.

Enter the financial planner who has deftly crafted a financial solution -- the strengths and merits of which are abundantly clear to the planner! However, filtered through the complexities of the individual's current realities, these recommendations may be a veritable walk through the jungle!

As financial planners, we must be ever mindful of the personal circumstances of our clients' circumstances often beyond our experience and our comprehension. But these are the realities through which our clients must wade in order to reach a comfortable decision regarding their personal and financial futures.

At The Fraser Financial Group, it is our sincere intention to offer timely, patient guidance and direction to ensure the solutions implemented are not our solutions but, rather, their solutions. We wish to applaud all those individuals and couples who have managed their adversities with strength and dignity. While we cannot begin to know or fully understand the individual challenges which each have faced, we applaud their efforts and successes. We have witnessed so many successes!