Your Friendly Neighborhood Notary

By Steph Routh

When I became a notary public a few years ago, I didn’t appreciate at the time what a meaningful journey I was embarking on. I just thought I’d be able to help some neighbors and friends complete paperwork they suddenly needed to take care of or had been putting off. It sounded boring. As it turns out, it is not!

Notaries public are asked to sign all kinds of paperwork, from real estate transactions to travel consent forms to advance directives. Perhaps one isn’t supposed to have favorites as a notary public, but my favorite documents are those that are needed during life transitions. 

These moments are personal and intimate. I’ve sat on a porch with a few neighbors to witness their signatures on some life documents. What could have been a quick transaction at a bank instead became a storytelling experience that had us all crying and hugging one another at the end of an hour. I have joined families in various home settings, as they describe the decisions they wish to memorialize in advance directives or wills. 

Every single notarial act I have performed has made me feel more connected to my local community. Each document is a portrait of a life changed, a life honored, a future planned. These are vulnerable moments, and I feel the honor and responsibility whenever I am called to bear witness.

I decided to become a notary public because a friend was navigating a life transition, and she shared how expensive it was to update her paperwork, including paying each time she needed someone to witness her signature. I discovered that it wasn’t too onerous to become a notary public, and that one could choose to either charge fees for each act or waive all fees. I chose to waive all fees so that funds wouldn’t be as much of a barrier to completing life planning documents for anyone. It has made all the difference.

Planning, caring, and community come together in such moments, and that is never more clear to me than when someone creates or updates an advance directive. I am also always touched during a health care power of attorney conversation. One of the greatest gifts one can give is to act and advocate on behalf of someone else’s wishes, even if they are unable. As a notary public, I feel I have a front row seat to some of the best, most caring, most human moments. 

We are cusping on a season in which families and friends come together in celebration and tradition. Your family and friends might discuss recent travels or relationship changes. Sometimes, talking about a loved one’s plans or desires when a sudden health issue arises is just one question away. It can be the beginning of a transformative conversation.

May the season be bright for you, and may you feel more connected with your community through the conversations that bring you closer.