Oh, Hello Death. Yes, I Will Come.

The quiet pressing of my notary stamp, the rustle of papers, the gentle click of a pen—these are the sounds of my daily work. For many, becoming a notary public might seem like a straightforward path, perhaps leading to the bustle of real estate deals or corporate transactions. That was certainly my initial thought. But life, in its infinite wisdom, has a way of rerouting our paths to where we're truly meant to be. For me, that path has led directly to the profound and sacred space where life meets its end. It has led me to welcome Death to call upon me.

A Calling At The End-of-Life

You see, I’ve discovered my true calling lies not in the vibrant beginnings of new ventures, but in the quiet, often unacknowledged, final chapters. As a notary, I walk into people's lives as a professional stranger, yet I strive to illuminate every interaction with a caring, loving, and deeply humanistic presence. I’m often unaware of the full reality I'm stepping into until I'm there, sometimes kneeling bedside, talking to individuals from all walks of life – young and old. The conversations, initially about documents and seals, quickly transcend the administrative. Looking into their eyes, I see sorrow, pain, guilt, and fear, but I also see the beautiful person before me, and I sense their profound need for relief and acceptance. I recognize the critical role I play in helping them find closure and peace.

Some may find it morbid or scary, but I don’t. Not for one second.

The Perfect Professional Stranger

I’ve had the immense privilege of helping people say their last words in writing, ensuring their final wishes are articulated before they close their eyes for the last time. In my experience as a notary public I come as "the professional stranger," a title I’ve given myself, to visit and relieve a burden, even if just for a moment. In these sacred spaces, where the inevitable looms, I strive to create a loving, caring conversation where anxieties float away, and smiles, even happy tears, can be shared. I hold hands, offer hugs, and jokingly refer to myself as your "Notary-In-Law." I hear and see things that will never leave those rooms; I am the keeper of secrets, carrying so much honor in being that person for others.

Death doesn’t scare me. In fact, I invite it to call. I invite Death to choose me to step in and fulfill my purpose: to comfort and support another human, a stranger, in letting their guard down. To help them not worry about a thing beyond that notary visit, and instead, to remember how wonderful their life was and how deeply loved they are.

Lessons Learned from a Life Well-Lived

This journey as a notary has taught me invaluable life lessons. I've learned about the importance of preparing for our own end, and in my experience with notary services for estate planning, I've listened to stories of "if I could do it over" and "wow, what a ride it was to live!" I have sat and watched those waiting to die admire the young around them, seeing all the wonderful qualities they bring to this life. It's like looking through a window; you can see with their eye movement and body language that it's the human connection that matters most. I've also witnessed countless times how much people fear getting old and run away from death. But through Death, I’ve learned that allowing yourself to grow old gracefully and be present is what truly matters, not wasting our time on the next beauty product in hopes of looking younger. We are meant to grow old and change over time. It's a beautiful thing, and it's a privilege.

I've learned that possessions are often unimportant; they can even create chaos and bitterness. Tangible items are often lost or forgotten over time, but what stays present are the life lessons that were taught and all the love that was shared. These are the stories that will be shared over and over again throughout time, just like the pages of a book. This is what stays front and center, colorfully vivid in our minds, creating smiles and the need to share with others, keeping our legacies alive. Death has taught me that it's the lives we touch, the people we help, and the legacy we build that truly matter. No brand-name shoe or piece of jewelry will make someone love you more once you're gone; those are temporary things. Your legacy, however, can teach generations what's right and wrong, and what a true role model should be. Death has single-handedly rewritten what I value and reshaped how I view my relationships. It has rerouted the very paths I choose in this life.

When I think of Death, I smile. I remember all the beautiful people who have held my pen and signed my journal, allowing me to help them make life-changing decisions. Death is not to be feared. Instead, Death will teach us, raise us, and nurture us into who we are truly meant to be.

A Legacy of Compassion

My work has taken me to many sacred and solemn places, from homes to hospital notary appointments. I have even worked alongside attorneys and legal professionals providing notary services when and where they are needed. With every person I serve, I am reminded of the preciousness of life and the honor of being a part of their story. My hope is to continue bringing a sense of peace and professional care to those who need it most, and I hope my story encourages you to embrace life and prepare for its inevitable end, knowing that in either case, you deserve a gentle and caring guide.

Warmly,

Julie Pearson

Owner, Julie -Notary Public

Call or Text Directly: (425) 319-6502

Learn More: https://julie-notarypublic.org/

If you or a loved one are in need of a caring and professional notary to assist with estate planning or other important documents, please feel free to contact me for compassionate service.