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Dear Friends b 3

                         Dear Kris b 9

                  The Sabbath Year b 11

Management’s Discussion & Analysis b 24

               Financial Highlights b 31

                Five-Year Summary b 31

                     Balance Sheet b 32

            Summary of Operations b 33

   Statement of Shareholder’s Equity b 34

            Statement of Cash Flow b 34
What an interesting and challenging year                 In fact, we did more than just come through
2009 was. For our company, it was another                the fire, we accelerated and sped past! Every
record year, but for me personally it was a year         month during 2009 was a new record sales
of true awakening.                                       month for FDLIC (by the end of 2009,
                                                         we had recorded 40 consecutive record sales
After coming out of 2008, where the financial
                                                         months!). While      other   financial    services
markets failed in the last four months of the year,
                                                         businesses were reeling over the United States’
we began the year by attempting to make an
                                                         tumultuous financial markets, FDLIC was growing
assessment of where our country was headed
                                                         and prospering. Literally, I was in total awe
economically. No one really knew and experts were
                                                         and amazement.
stumped. All that kept coming to my mind about
our company was “be intentional about staying the        That is why I felt impressed to give something
course.”   Funeral    Directors    Life   Insurance      back to God. Through His guidance, wisdom,
Company (FDLIC) has had a solid investment               and protective hand, we (me personally, our
strategy and a sound business plan for twenty            management team, and our company) had been
years, so I really saw no reason for us to not believe   more than saved, we had been blessed! And
that the principles we had preached and followed for     thus grew the idea of the Sabbath Year for FDLIC
so many years would not survive under fire (I mean       -- where we would give every employee the
businesses develop their plans and strategies in order   opportunity to take 10% (a tithe of sorts) of the
to withstand the bad times, right?). We stood firm,      year off for rest, redemption, reflection, reward,
we kept the faith, and we came through the fire!         repair, relationships, and time to refocus.

Earlier, I referred to being intentional about staying the course. You might be wondering, “What does
it mean to be intentional about ‘staying the course’?” For me, being intentional means making
every action count -- knowing what we are doing and why we are doing it. Biblical scripture says in
the book of Joshua (chapter 1, verse 7), “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law
my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be
successful wherever you go.” (emphasis added). I like the picture of not turning to the right or to
the left -- this is intentionally staying the course!




                                                                                                              2009 3
Here were the keys to intentionally staying the course during 2009:

         1. Have a purpose worth living for. At FDLIC, we have established a culture of serving. All of
           our people see that helping others is a purpose worth living for. In fact one of our five Strategic
           Objectives is To Be Known as Helpers of People. During 2009, our Helpers of People Charitable
           Contribution matching program seemed to really take off. More than any other year, we matched
           charitable contributions that were made by our client funeral homes and by our employees. We see
           our opportunity to match the charitable giving of our funeral home clients and our employees
           as a way of supporting worthy causes that are of importance and value to the people closest to us.
           This program has allowed us to help organizations and people far beyond our corporate circle of
           influence in an intentional and meaningful way.

           In addition, FDLIC has seen increased use in our HOPE fund. The HOPE fund (Helping Our
           People Excel) is a program that we established to assist our employees with the “issues” of life,
           which range from financial concerns to marital problems to teenager issues to spiritual dilemmas.
           In other words, the HOPE fund is our means of establishing a safe place for our employees to share
           personal problems and issues in a confidential manner so that our company can provide help
           and assistance. In essence, we know that our employees spend most of their waking hours here,
           at work, and we want them to know that we care about them. We are a community of 135 people,
           every one of us has problems, and all of us need help once in a while. Originally, our HOPE
           fund was established to help our employees with personal financial problems, but through the
           leadership of Ray Thompson, our HOPE fund has turned out to be considerably more.

         2. Know our strengths and weaknesses. I once heard it said that playing to your strengths renews
           your energy and your passion. One of our most significant strengths is providing a
           “great place to work” for all of our team members. Another of our five Strategic Objectives is
           To Be Known as a Great Place to Work. With a focus on being a great place to work, we have
           established an environment, a culture so to speak, that has been described to me as “family” --
           to me, that is the most meaningful compliment that we could ever receive.

            In 2009, we did a number of things to improve on this strategic objective:

                   Announcing and implementing the Sabbath Year concept. I had no idea that the Sabbath
                   Year concept would be received as well as it was received by our people. They embraced
                   the idea and came up with creative and meaningful ways to use the 30-days that we were
                   giving them. In fact, I am extremely excited to see the fruit from our people taking a
                   Sabbath after everyone has had a chance to participate.



4 2009
The completion of a significant renovation project at our home office. FDLIC made
         considerable home office building improvements to our Management Information
         Systems Department and our Human Resources Department. These renovations were
         long overdue, but they have been appreciated by all of our staff.
         Continuation of our monthly staff luncheons and our Performance Plus program. As a
         means to keep our home office personnel informed about everything that is going on at
         FDLIC, we began having monthly luncheons more than 20 years ago. These luncheons
         have more or less taken on a life of their own and have become a fun, entertaining, and
         informative family reunion (I think family reunion is the best way to describe the
         environment). At these luncheons, we allow our people to give Performance Plus awards
         to each other. Each employee is allowed to give up to two of these awards each year to
         other employees that they see doing good work for the company and achieving one or
         more of our Strategic Objectives. As you can imagine, the presentation of these awards
         can get quite emotional and personal, which helps us in our attempt to create a great
         place to work.
         Upgrading technology. Surprisingly, most of our staff tell me that one of the primary
         things that makes FDLIC a great place to work is the fact that we stay on the leading
         edge of technology and supply our people with the technology they need to get their
         job done efficiently and effectively. This amazes me because I would assume that all
         companies would supply their people with the best in technology so that they can do
         their jobs better, but I have been told that other companies do not. Each year, we dedicate
         a portion of our budget toward improving our technology. In 2009, we upgraded our
         telephone system, supplied the majority of our people with new computers, and updated
         our software, which seemed to really excite and motivate them.

3. Prioritize our responsibilities. In order to intentionally stay the course, we have seen the
   need to research and develop ideas that will grow our company. As my father used to tell me,
   “You’re either growin’ or you are dyin’,” and I am a firm believer that in order to remain relevant,
   your company has to grow. To Grow the Company is another one of our Strategic Objectives.
   Over the past few years, we have subtly embarked on some new projects
   that have helped us accomplish this strategic objective.

         Regional Sales Vice Presidents: In order to
         meet the needs of our existing and new client
         funeral homes, we have had to shift some
         sales management responsibilities outside of
         our home office. As FDLIC has spanned out

                                                                                                          2009 5
across the United States, our Executive Management team was finding it more and more
                   difficult to supply the sales oversight that was needed. Consequently, we created the
                   Regional Sales Vice President position. Now, we have five Regional Sales Vice Presidents
                   that oversee the expansion of FDLIC from coast-to-coast.
                   Training: Our training department has grown in two years from one trainer to three.
                   We have found that solid sales training has been lacking in the preneed funeral
                   profession. We have made solid efforts toward building a quality sales management
                   team by training them to better serve our client funeral homes. Our next objective for
                   training will be to develop a strong program to assist sales producers to better represent
                   funeral service to the ultimate consumer.
                   Marketing Services: Today at FDLIC, we have more marketing services for our funeral
                   home clients to select from than ever before in the history of our company. We have
                   made a concerted effort to provide a variety of options in order to meet the needs of
                   each client, as we strive to become knowledgeable, trusted business advisors.

         4. Learn to say “no.” For a guy who really likes to do entrepreneurial things, I have definitely had
            to learn to say “no.” At times, I have said “yes” and a few (some would say many) of those “yes”
            decisions did not turn out as well as I had expected. The founders of FDLIC had a vision, and that
            vision centered around providing quality preneed funeral products and service to funeral homes
                                   with the firm understanding that the funeral home is our customer.
                                          This point was driven home to me early and often, and that is
                                           why one of our Strategic Objectives is To Be the Leading Provider
                                             of Service to the Funeral Industry. We have committed to this
                                             strategic objective and to our statement of purpose which is
                                             “To Be the Best, Most-Respected Provider of Service to the
                                             Funeral Industry.” Consequently, we have learned, and some of
                                            us continuously learn, that we cannot be all things to all people,
                                          and we have to say “no” whenever something comes along (as good as
                                       it may look) that ventures beyond our purpose. A famous Jewish Rabbi
                                named Jesus once said, “Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No’;
            anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” As with all of the principles that He taught us, we
            must take this to heart.

         5. Commit to long-term achievement. The only way that we could have prospered in this negative
            economic environment of the past 16 months was through our commitment to long-term
            achievement. We realize that life insurance is a long-term business, and our funeral home clients
            and policy holders count on and trust us to manage their money well. In addition, they want to

6 2009
know that they have placed their trust in a company that is financially sound and stable. Our final
   Strategic Objective is To Achieve Good Financial Results. We know that if we focus on our first four
   Strategic Objectives that good financial results will follow. We were very concerned in 2008
   about our financial results which were negatively affected by our nation’s economic crisis, but after
   seeing how peer insurance companies performed, we celebrated our achievement -- which leads us
   to our 2009 financial results.

   The financial results we achieved in 2009 were far beyond what would be considered good.
   We rallied back from the difficult investment environment of 2008 and established record
   results in 2009. Honestly, our stellar financial performance was not expected. Let me share with
   you a few highlights:

            Total sales for 2009 closed the year at $154.7 million (a new company record), a 12.82%
            increase over 2008.
            FDLIC closed 2009 with assets of $632.5 million (a new company record) as compared
            to $556.6 million for 2008 (a 13.6% increase).
            Capital and surplus ended 2009 at $57.8 million (a new company record), $9.2 million
            better than where we ended 2008 (a 19.0% increase).
            Even with a shaky investment environment, FDLIC had $6.0 million of net income
            (a new company record), surpassing net income recorded in 2008 by 484.9%!

With all that happened in 2008 in the United States, we definitely needed a positive 2009.
We consider ourselves to be extremely blessed to have weathered the storm. Thanks be to God
for the wisdom that was given to us to establish a solid investment strategy and a strong business plan
more than 20 years ago, and thanks be to God for the courage to intentionally stay the course.


FINAL THOUGHTS
As I was putting my thoughts together for this letter, I bounced a few ideas and questions past
my assistant. She really did not have any initial suggestions, but a little later in the day she sent
me an email which describes our culture better than anything that I could have written. Here is what
she said:

        As a new employee we are offered a position with a certain salary, job description, schedule,
        etc. We are told of the many benefits, including employee luncheons, health care, fitness
        center, possible incentive trips, holidays, etc. I say that to mention, in a short matter of time,
        you realize the most important bonus (of being part of the FDLIC family) is not something
        you can attend, have or use, it is our people.


                                                                                                             2009 7
Once you are hired, you are a part of the FDLIC family. One is not more important than
                 another; you are an integral part of an extraordinary team. Our executives, supervisors,
                 and Human Resources personnel screen and hire you to join the team knowing you are
                 capable of greatness. Personally, I have experienced encouragement to take on tasks
                 outside my so called “comfort level.” I won’t say I went “kicking and screaming,” but one
                 notch below that and I was amazed that it went well. A mentor is an unexpected gift.

                 Think about how many different people, personalities, backgrounds, education, etc. there
                 are in our company. When I write this I see the faces of Craig (Loper), Ray (Thompson),
                 Alicia (Rasco), Shaun (Gaffney), Iris (Williams), Gloria (Emmert), Heather (Guitar),
                 Alvino (Sanchez), Zack (Shahan), Loren (Tatom), Terri (Bannister), and Gloria (Lantzy).
                 We are able to engage each and every one’s talent and abilities and mesh them all together
                 and have extraordinary continual results. My gosh, this is priceless! We have the
                 wherewithal, passion, integrity and track record resulting in remarkable success in
                 the most turbulent times!

         I may have used different vernacular, but I think that Angie (Holmes) has said it best -- our people
         really do make the difference. And her thoughts are echoed throughout our home office. For this
         reason, I truly felt impressed by God to give our people a Sabbath Year as a tithe -- God is
         acknowledged and our people are rewarded!

         Once again, I want to thank you for the confidence you have placed in our company. We value
         and appreciate the opportunity to serve.




         KRIS SEALE
         President & Chief Executive Officer




8 2009
You spoke in your letter of “staying the course” with   We’ve recognized that the Sabbatical is as much
this company throughout 2009. With business             a blessing as it is a challenge. “Keep in mind what
plans, budget plans, and investment plans,              the Sabbath Year is all about,” we were reminded
FDLIC maintains a steady course even in the             often. “Focus on your heart, on your renewal,
roughest of circumstances, and we are thankful          and your revival -- not someone else’s.” We know
to be a part of such a steady and stable company.       this is going to be a challenge -- the kind that
We have not been blind to the fact that many            stretches and grows you physically, emotionally,
American workers are not so fortunate, and              and spiritually.
we are more deeply grateful for your godly
                                                        We would like to thank you also that you’re not
leadership than we can adequately express.
                                                        sending us out on our individual Sabbatical
And now, on top of giving us a great place to work      journeys without some sense of direction.
and a solid company to work for, you have done          We were all presented with Waking the Dead, a
what no corporate president to our knowledge            wonderful book by John Eldredge, that inspires
has ever done for his or her employees. You’ve          us to understand what it means to be fully alive.
given us the opportunity to take a 30-day               And, you have given us certain guidelines as
Sabbatical. Wow! Some of us are still in shock          well…a map, so to speak, by which to chart
at the amazing generosity of this gift! We are          our course. Over the 30-day Sabbatical period,
excited, nervous, joyful, and overwhelmed with          you requested that we focus on areas in our lives
gratitude all at the same time.                         that often go neglected:

           Rest: At least 9 hours of rest per day, with 7 to 8 hours of nightly sleep and 1 to 2
           hours of napping or reflective meditation.
           Redemption: Time allotted for devotional or Bible study.
           Reflection: Journaling, meditating, praying (can be in conjunction with the 1 to 2
           hours of dedicated day-rest.)
           Reward & Repair: Time for exercise, personal quiet time, and reading.
           Relationships: Time to intentionally devote to friends and family, and specifically
           to those relationships that have been strained or damaged.
           Refocus: Time set aside for a mission trip or service project.




                                                                                                              2009 9
From the bottom of our hearts, we would like to thank you for this opportunity…and also for this
          challenge to discover our true priorities in life, to experience an awakening, and to embark on a
          journey that we are certain will change us forever.

          Thank you,
          Your FDLIC Family




10 2009
REST
          If you were to ask the average American today how they were doing, they would automatically
          respond: “Good, fine, everything’s great! Just keeping busy! Actually, I’m in a hurry right now. I really
          have to go, but it was so nice seeing you!” Sound familiar? Very likely, we have all been this person at one
          time or another.

          Sadly, many Americans not only accept endless activity as a way of life, they wear it as a badge of honor,
          even a sign of importance, equating constant busyness with success in life.

          But in our heart of hearts, we know that simply cannot be true. We know that there must be more to
          life than this.

          What, after all, is the end result of all our restless energy? Our hearts grow cold and tired, we lose sight
          of our dreams and our sense of wonder, we grow disillusioned, even despairing; our relationships suffer
          from neglect, and normally, we’re on the point of exhaustion or breakdown. We yearn for something more:
          for meaning, for purpose, for a full life! It is a cultural epidemic…why else would the book, A Purpose-Driven
          Life, become such a runaway success? It is because as a society, we are caught in a cycle of living full, active
          lifestyles devoid of any meaning or purpose.

          In Waking the Dead, John Eldredge quotes Saint Irenaeus as having once said “The glory of God is man
          fully alive.” Eldredge comments on his initial surprise upon first reading this phrase: “…Really? I mean, is
          that what you’ve been told? That the purpose of God -- the very thing he’s staked his reputation on -- is your
          coming fully alive?”

          While we may have an overabundance of activity, by no stretch of the imagination are we “fully alive.”
          Could it be true that God is most glorified when our hearts are most fully alive? Then, we remember
          his promise: “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I come that they may have life, and have it
          abundantly” (John 10:10).

          If we are tired and discouraged, if we have all but given up, if we feel like we don't even know what living
          a full life would look like, there is hope. He says to us with compassion and gentleness: “Come to me,
          all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,
          for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my
          burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). There is a rest available to us if we only accept it. But we have to let go
          of our ideas of priorities on our time, our ideas of what success in life looks like, and the hardest of all --
          our false sense of control.

          It is a leap of faith, a jump into the unknown, but the rewards are eternally worth it.




12 2009
W OW !
   It is hard to believe that the long-a
                                              nticipated journey has begun!
   I usually am “much for words” but the prim
                                                ary word all along for me has
   been simply, “WOW!” I am amazed and
                                              deeply grateful for this incredible
  gift. And I do so want to use it wisely, to
                                              bless and to be blessed.
  I want to share from my experience in
                                             September, 2009, when I first
  learned of this Sabbatical opportunity.

  Funeral Directors Life Insurance Co
                                              mpany was celebrating a record
  production for August. After enjoyin
                                             g the tasty spread and a few
  celebratory toasts, I switched places wit
                                              h my co-worker so I could
  cover the phone. As folks later emerged
                                                from the festivities, there
  was a buzz about “the Sabbatical.” Bits
                                               and pieces of information
  were given to me over the next few days, but
                                                 I did not have a clear
 understanding yet. I was eager for the wri
                                                tten explanation from
 Kris to come forth, which it soon did. A
                                             30-day paid Sabbatical
 with opportunities for rest, redemption,
                                             reflection, reward and
 repair, relationships, and time to refocus.

 WOW! (that word again!) You are spe
                                          echless and amazed
when presented with such an incredible
                                        opportunity to know
God and yourself better, to jump off
                                        that faith-cliff and
see what happens that will forever cha
                                       nge your life, to be
able to “come away” for rest and renewal
                                          and all the other
delightful “R’s”!

Susan Condry, FDLIC Company
                            Receptionist
SABBATICAL: TRIP TO ISRAEL




                                                                                    2009 13
REDEMPTION
          Perhaps one of the most moving films of our time is The Shawshank Redemption. In it, the story of a
          man unfolds, a man who is wrongfully accused and put into jail for two consecutive life sentences. But with
          the help of a friend, he is able to escape his life of captivity and walk into a life of freedom and hope.
          Our hearts leap as the perfectly laid plans begin to unfold and the two friends are finally reunited on a
          beautiful, peaceful beach, far away from their former prison walls.

          Braveheart is yet another great film that resonates deeply with us. This is the story of a Scottish warrior who
          defends his beloved Highlands against British invasion. His cry for “Freedom!” can bring tears to the eyes.
          We know what he has suffered at the hands of the British, and we are certain that freedom is something
          worth fighting for…it is even worth dying for.

          When we allow ourselves time to stop, rest, and rejuvenate, our eyes begin to open and our hearts begin
          to awaken to new truths. We slowly become aware that we have been living in an invisible prison. We are
          serving a life sentence with no chance of parole! Hopelessly imprisoned by negative emotions, we battle
          daily with feeling frustrated, worried, unappreciated, resentful, lonely, angry, and needy. We are trapped.
          We desperately need freedom!

          As Jesus began his ministry, he made an astonishing announcement. Quoting from the book of Isaiah,
          he declared:

                   “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
                         because he has anointed me
                         to preach good news to the poor.
                     He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
                      and recovery of sight for the blind,
                    to release the oppressed,
                     to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19, emphasis added)

          Now, Jesus did not suddenly begin springing criminals from jail. Even his cousin, John the Baptist,
          remained in prison and eventually died. No, Jesus was speaking of a different kind of prisoner: those who
          were living in bondage, those who were blind both spiritually and physically, those who were oppressed and
          forgotten. That’s good news, because that’s us!

          Perhaps that is why films like The Shawshank Redemption and Braveheart are such powerful stories in our
          lives. As these characters struggle for freedom, we recognize our own need for liberation -- from constant
          worry, pain, fear, doubt, anger, bitterness, loneliness, brokenness. We have been oppressed, blinded, and
          held prisoner against our will. We have labored under burdens too difficult to bear. We have strived
          without ceasing and gotten nowhere. And we are painfully aware that it is impossible to live life to the
          fullest in this state of oppression.

          But there is good news. There is one who is fighting for our freedom.




14 2009
A P OW E R F U L M O M E N T
    I was given the chance to share my testimony on the
                                                            second day of the Pastor’s
   Conference in Gopalpur, India. The reception that
                                                           I received was incredible!
   I talked to them about my Christian walk and how God
                                                         had really worked on my heart
   over the past seven years. Then, I told them about
                                                          our company and how God
  had protected us from the financial crisis in America
                                                         of 2008. I explained to the
  attendees that our company was offering a “Sabbath Year
                                                         ” to our employees in thanks
  for what God had been doing in our company and in me
                                                         personally. And as normal for
  me, tears were coming from my eyes.
    At that point in my testimony, Pastor Obed (our
                                                                    host and interpreter)
    unexpectedly stopped me from going further, and
                                                               he asked the attendees
   to pray for our company, to pray for our employee
                                                             s, and to pray for my
   leadership. Needless to say, I was overcome with emotion
                                                                  ! Here were 170 or
  so pastors, who had been recently subject to persecution,
                                                                 subject to all kinds
  of threats, subject to their houses and churches being burn
                                                              ed down, subject to
  doing whatever necessary to protect their families, and they
                                                                   were praying for
  us! Words just cannot express the power of that mom
                                                            ent.
 As I completed my testimony, Pastor David came up
                                                              and asked for any
 of the men in attendance to stand who needed to
                                                                improve their
 relationship with their wife, improve their relationsh
                                                               ip with their
family, and improve their relationship with the peop
                                                                le that they
work with -- and to my amazement, ALL of the
                                                            men stood up!
David asked me to pray over these men to close
                                                           our session for
the afternoon. Each day in India seems to be mor
                                                            e intense and
more amazing!
Kris Seale, FDLIC President & CEO
SABBATICAL: TRIP TO INDIA




                                                                                            2009 15
REFLECTION
          What is your deepest fear? Do you fear never being able to measure up? Or do you fear what others might
          think if your full glory were revealed? What if your true self were laid bare for all the world to see?

          In the story of The Lion King, young Simba has fled from his home in shame and guilt. He has been
          told a lie and fears that he is responsible for his father’s death. All the while, he is running from his
          responsibility and his calling. Then one day, Simba is told that his father still lives! Filled with amazement
          and anticipation at seeing his father again, Simba is led to a pool where he looks in, only to find his own
          reflection staring back at him. He is disappointed. But suddenly, he hears his father’s voice.

                  MUFASA:           Simba.
                  SIMBA:            Father?
                  MUFASA:           Simba, you have forgotten me.
                  SIMBA:            No! How could I?
                  MUFASA:           You have forgotten who you are, and so forgotten me. Look inside yourself,
                                    Simba…you are more than what you have become.
                  SIMBA:            How can I go back? I’m not who I used to be.
                  MUFASA:           Remember who you are. You are my son, and the one true king.
                                    Remember who you are.

          Remember who you are. Somehow, we sense that Mufasa is speaking to us, too. At first, we may feel
          like running away when it is time to sit down and reflect on the direction of our lives. We’ve messed
          up. Badly. We avoid stillness and reflection because it might bring up painful memories and wounds.
          Or we might even have to face our own shame, guilt, and failure.

          But then, something wonderful happens. Our Father says, “That’s not you. Forget about all that and
          remember who you are. I have purchased your freedom, taken your failure, and given you my glory in
          return. Now, go show it to the world!”

          Are we inadequate to step into our destiny? Yes, there’s no question. But do we have help from
          our Father? Absolutely. He lives in us, and it is his glory that we reflect back to the world. The question is,
          will we be courageous enough to reveal the glory within? As Marianne Willamson so eloquently put it:

                  Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond
                  measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I
                  to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of
                  God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking
                  so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do.
                  We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s
                   in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to
                  do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.




16 2009
REFLECTIONS ON MARC
                        H 1 0 TH
     Thi r ty-n ine year s ago , Mar ch 10 th became a sign
                                                                ifica nt day for me . It was
     stra nge , because I had over slep t for scho ol, and
                                                                 I hea rd mult iple voices in
     my hou se -- the voices of aunt s, othe r fam ily mem
                                                                bers and frie nds. Thi s was
     not norm al.
    My fath er had rece ntly gon e thro ugh surg ery and radi
                                                                  ation trea tme nts. He was
    now a shel l of his form er self , stru ggli ng just
                                                            to move arou nd the hou se .
    Thi s was a resu lt of lung cancer, due to almo st 40
                                                             year s of smo king . Just a few
    days befo re Mar ch 10th , I had obse rved the loca
                                                              l Method ist mini ster ente r
   our hom e, whi ch was unus ual. Righ t then and ther
                                                            e, in the bath room of my
   gran dmo ther ’s hou se acro ss the street, I knel t dow
                                                            n and pray ed that Go d
   wou ld save my fath er. I wan ted Go d to save him from
                                                                 dyin g anyt ime soon.
   Wel l, Go d answ ered that pray er, but not in the
                                                                 way I had hoped.
   On Mar ch 10, 1971 , I awo ke to find out that my fath
                                                               er had died .
  The goo d new s is, I beli eve that my fath er
                                                             rece ived Chr ist’s
  forg iven ess for his sins , and I fully expe ct to see
                                                           him aga in one day
  in hea ven. So Go d did answ er my first pray er -- He
                                                               save d my fath er
  -- not for a few more year s on this ear th, but for
                                                              all of eter nity .
 Eve ry Mar ch 10th since 1971 has bee n a sad
                                                          rem inde r for me
 of a life -alt erin g even t. But now Mar ch 10th
                                                                has ano ther
 mea ning for me . It is the day I travel to Israel on a
                                                          miss ion trip with
 frie nds, new and old, and the first day of my Sab
                                                          bati cal. Wha t a
 won derf ul opp or tuni ty! I just wan t to mak e a diff
                                                           eren ce in the
lives of the peo ple that Go d puts in my life . As the
                                                               Bible says ,
I nee d to dec rease so that Jesu s can increase
                                                          (Joh n 3:3 0).
May He be seen and glor ifie d in all that I do.
Ray Tho mp son , Spe cial Pro gra
                                  ms Adm inis trat or
SAB BAT ICA L: TRI P TO ISR AEL




                                                                                                2009 17
REWARD & REPAIR
          “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” -- Psalms 37:4

          They say it takes twenty-one days to learn a new habit, or to unlearn a bad one. In our hectic lives, we are
          in the habit of almost always relegating the needs and desires of the heart to the back burner. However, true
          reward and repair cannot occur unless we get into the habit of listening to and responding to the needs of
          our hearts.

          How do we do that? John Eldredge paints a memorable picture for us in Waking the Dead:

                  I love watching a herd of horses grazing in an open pasture or running free across the sage-
                  covered plateaus in Montana. I love hiking in the high country when the wildflowers are blooming --
                  the purple lupine and the Shasta daisies, the Indian paintbrush when it’s turning magenta. I love
                  thunderclouds, massive ones. My family loves to sit outside on summer nights and watch the
                  lightning, hear the thunder as a storm rolls in across Colorado. I love water too -- the ocean,
                  streams, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, rain. I love jumping off high rocks into lakes with my boys.
                  I love old barns, windmills, the West. I love vineyards. I love it when Stasi is loving something,
                  love watching her delight. I love my boys. I love God.

                  Everything you love is what makes a life worth living…A life filled with loving is a life most like
                  one that God lives, which is life as it was meant to be (Eph. 5:1-2). And loving requires a heart
                  alive and awake and free.

          What a picture of a heart fully alive! And how we have sold ourselves short so many times.

          Maybe we have been in the habit of working too much, always driven to succeed and perform. Maybe we
          have been in the habit of being short with our spouse or speaking in ways that discourage rather than
          encourage. Maybe we have been in the habit of ignoring our inner hurt, pushing it aside and moving on
          without taking the time to heal. Maybe we have been in the habit of ignoring the state of our hearts, our
          hopes, and our dreams, the things we truly love.

          Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Reward and
          repair occur only when we make our hearts a priority, rather than an afterthought.

          Like anything else, this new habit takes practice. We have to make a choice daily to make our hearts a
          priority. What are the things that you truly love? What makes you come alive? Think beyond what gives
          you enjoyment. What causes your heart to leap, awaken, and catch hold of a dream?

          When we pause and reflect, we will begin to understand the deeper needs of the heart, and reward
          and repair are sure to follow. As we allow God’s glory to shine through and we find our delight in him,
          he begins to slowly work on repairing the damage that has been done to us.




18 2009
A C H A N G E O F PL A N S
   The last several days have ranged from stillness
                                                              and study to total physical
   activity. Thursday and Friday I continued my stud
                                                          y of Waking the Dead, and my
  spirit is being challenged by what I am reading. The
                                                           biggest surprise of the Sabbatical
  is how being fully rested changes how you feel, how you
                                                          relate to others, and in general your
  overall well-being.

  Part of the Sabbatical has changed dramatically
                                                     since my Dad died less than two
  months ago. I planned to spend the first week in Lub
                                                       bock with Mom and Dad and a
  week in Durango, Colorado skiing Purgatory Mounta
                                                         in with my lovely wife, Lori.
  Lori and I had originally planned to spend this time
                                                         together alone, but decided
 to include Mom and Marvin, one of my brothers, since
                                                        Mom has not been able to
 travel for several years due to Dad’s health.

  So, Sunday we loaded up and were on the road
                                                      by 6:00 am, stopped in
  at Lubbock to pick up Mom and had a wonderful time
                                                          enjoying the beautiful
 drive and the family time. We arrived at Purgatory Vill
                                                         age around 6:00 p.m.
 Texas time and walked into a beautiful condo that
                                                     would be serving as our
 family home for the week. What a view from the windows!
                                                          Marvin, Lori, and
I have skied each day and I love the physical demand.
                                                       Lori has turned into
a snow bunny and her skiing gets better and better.
                                                    We love being in the
mountains and just seeing God’s artistry. It is abso
                                                      lutely, unbelievably
amazing seeing the beauty of the work of His hands.

Mark Owen, FDLIC Regional Sale
                              s Vice President
SABBATICAL: LOVE & CARE MIN
                            ISTRIES




                                                                                                  2009 19
RELATIONSHIPS
          “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’ And the head cannot say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you!’
          On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable…” -- 1 Corinthians 12:21-22

          In the great epic, The Lord of the Rings, a band of travelers come together for one purpose: to put an
          end to the power of a dark force that threatens to overtake the whole of their land. Though they are each
          so different from one another, all of them need each other. They could not have survived, much less
          succeeded, without every member of their fellowship playing a vital role.

          Yet our tendency is to dismiss the importance of relationships. Wounds may go unforgiven for years.
          Pride rises up and keeps us from apologizing. Blame surfaces. Bitter roots grow deep, and fellowship is broken.

          John Eldredge reminds us that, like the Fellowship of the Ring, which bands together to fight a war, we, too,
          are in the midst of a great epic war of mythic proportions. But we do not war against flesh and blood;
          we war against an enemy who would like nothing more than to keep us in bondage, steal our peace, and
          destroy our relationships.

          You see, relationships are holy ground. God created us to live in community, to encourage one another and
          lift each other up, to love one another as his Son loved us. When we break communion with one another,
          we break communion with God, and, for the enemy, that battle is won.

          Though we may see our relationships as ordinary, they are very special and important to God. One of the
          most common themes throughout Jesus’ teachings, Paul’s letters, and the rest of the New Testament is the
          importance of loving and forgiving one another. This is because the glory of God is revealed when our love
          for one another is made perfect. As John the apostle wrote:

                  Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born
                  of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is
                  how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might
                  live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an
                  atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one
                  another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love
                  is made complete in us. -- 1 John 4:7-12 (emphasis added)

          Our family, friends, co-workers, spiritual community -- all of our relationships -- have a vital role to
          play. They grow us, teach us, stretch us, and give us opportunities to reveal God’s glory within us. They are
          fertile ground where God’s Kingdom is being spread, and territory is being won back from the enemy.

          Our run-of-the-mill relationships may feel like familiar old ground, but they are in fact part of God’s
          plan and purpose. Let us not forget when we draw near to another human heart, made in the image of God,
          we should take off our shoes and tread with care…for those relationships are holy ground.




20 2009
A WEIGHT LIFTED
   I finished the book Captivating by John and
                                                   Stasi Eldredge this weekend.
  How wonderful it was! Oh, how it reminde
                                                 d me of the love I had come to
  forget over time. It puts into perspective how
                                                  our hearts come first and God
  is after our heart how he wants to wholly
                                                 fill our heart and our life and
  our desires.

  I feel a peace as I am nearing the end
                                              of my Sabbatical. First of all
  I feel very spoiled. I love having the free
                                              dom to do other things, to help
  others. I also learned that once this time
                                               is up and I am back at work
 tomorrow I don’t have to give it up either.
                                             I have learned what God’s
 love for me really is and how to emb
                                           race it. I learned how to
 strengthen relationships I already have.
                                            I have learned not to take
 for granted these things in life.

  I have not mentioned much about my family
                                                and the relationships
 I wanted to restore. I have been able to
                                               do so with some, but
 others have been resistant. I can't say it
                                            is a failure, but I think
 in time God will restore what he wishes
                                               to restore. This is
 somewhat of a soft spot for me and God
                                            has been working with
me on the resentments I have carried for
                                            so long. I have begun
to let go of them and feel much better. It
                                              is like a weight is
lifted off of my back. Oh, how wonderful
                                             God is!
Kyra Shahan, Directors Choice
                              Representative
SABBATICAL: MEALS ON WHEEL
                               S




                                                                                   2009 21
REFOCUS
          Many years before GPS systems were ever invented, navigation on the high seas was anything but an exact
          art. When land slipped out of sight, you were navigating based on rough estimates calculated from
          the movements of the sun, moon and stars. Knowing where you were (and staying on course at the same
          time) was nothing short of a miracle. Take Columbus, for example. To the day he died, he was convinced
          his journeys to America from Spain had opened up a new route to the East Indies! He had no idea where
          on earth he was.

          Many times in life, it feels like we do not know where we’re going or where we’ve been. We’re tossed back
          and forth on the sea, adrift without a clue as to how to get back on course. It is time to refocus…and find
          a renewed vision and purpose for our lives.

          A song by Christian singer Brandon Heath expresses this very need to refocus, to find a new way of
          seeing. He sings,

                   Give me your eyes for just one second.
                   Give me your eyes so I can see.
                   Everything that I keep missing,
                   Give me your love for humanity.
                   Give me your arms for the broken-hearted,
                   Ones that are far beyond my reach.
                   Give me your heart for the ones forgotten,
                   Give me your eyes so I can see.

          Looking through the eyes of love, we can see more clearly what our purpose is and where our destiny lies.
          Doing this isn’t easy. It takes time set aside to be able to hear and listen. But just as a helmsman at his post,
          we have to stay alert, and diligently plot our course to stay in line with our one true Navigator.

          First, our hearts are awakened to the new life that is now possible -- abundant life. This is our final
          destination, but what a journey we have ahead of us! As hopeful as Columbus, we set out with high expec-
          tations through uncharted waters in search of the new life that awaits.

          Taking time for rest, meditation, reflection, and redemption, we hear the voice of the Navigator. He prods
          us, go this way, turn here. As it says in Isaiah chapter 30, verse 21, “Whether you turn to the right or to the
          left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” We must pause from our
          activity to be able to hear that voice.

          Well on our journey, we learn to understand the value of reward and repair. It is then that our hearts
          are strengthened to steadfastly endure whatever winds or storms may blow our way. We invest in our
          relationships and begin to understand what it is to love one another, and we are encouraged and bolstered
          on our journey by our friends. And finally, we learn to refocus, to see our journey through the eyes of the
          best Navigator in the world, who will never lead us astray. It is from him that we draw our strength and
          by his power we are able to see the journey through to the end.



22 2009
T H E J O U R N E Y CO N T I N U E
                                      S
   Proverbs 12:20 says “He that trusts
                                           in the Lord, happy is he.”
   How true this verse is. I am learning tha
                                             t more and more every day.
   It seems to me that the happiest people
                                           in the nursing homes are the
  ones that have an abiding faith and tru
                                           st in Jesus Christ. They are
  the most content. They are determined
                                          to live each day to the fullest
  and enjoy whatever time they have left
                                         on earth. They are teaching me
  to live that way also.

   Yesterday was the last day of my Sab
                                              batical. It was a time of
   worship and reflection. Today, I wil
                                           l be back at work with a
   renewed heart. That has been the resu
                                            lt of the last 30 days.
  God has renewed my heart. I have trie
                                           d to share with you here
  what He has been doing in my life. It was
                                               impossible to share
  it all. I do know these things. I will
                                          continue to visit in the
 nursing homes. I have been blessed
                                          so very much by the
 people I have met there. I will continu
                                            e to be open to the
 leadership of God in my life. I want my
                                             life to be pleasing
to Him. I will continue to preach and
                                              teach his Word
because I know it changes lives. I will
                                          do my job each day
as unto the Lord. I will continue to
                                         spend quantity and
quality time with my family. The Sab
                                        batical may be over,
but the journey continues.

Leon Stone, Director of Sales Dev
                                 elopment
SABBATICAL: NURSING HOME
                               MINISTRY




                                                                            2009 23
Analysis of Financial Position
For 2009, the financial position of Funeral Directors Life Insurance Company (FDLIC) remained
strong as the company maintained an A.M. Best Insurance Company Rating of A- (Excellent) during
the year. Operationally, FDLIC significantly out-performed the previous year’s results. Realized capital
losses were down considerably from 2008 and related largely to the results of normal trading activity.


ASSETS
The total assets of FDLIC grew to $632.48 million, an increase of $75.87 million or 13.63% from year-end
2008 to year-end 2009. As of December 31, 2009, FDLIC’s assets were distributed as follows: 97.21% in
investments, 1.24% in investment income due and accrued, .61% in deferred and uncollected life
insurance premiums and annuity considerations, and .94% in various other assets.

Invested Assets: For 2009, the primary investment held by FDLIC was bonds -- government, agency,
and corporate -- representing 85.67% of invested assets or $526.73 million.The emphasis regarding
the investment portfolio has consistently involved maximizing return, limiting risk, achieving
appropriate liquidity, and matching the cash flow of invested assets with the projected cash flow of
the company’s insurance liabilities. Throughout 2009, FDLIC maintained this approach to matching
the expected cash flows. This conservative approach to managing assets has been consistent since 1993
and was designed to reduce risk and
provide assurance that cash flow of assets
is appropriate to provide for the claims of
the company.

The growth in company assets has allowed
FDLIC to “average into the market” over
many different interest rate scenarios,
and in all areas of the yield curve. In
combination with a disciplined approach to
investing, this has enabled FDLIC to lower
the market value volatility of the portfolio to
interest rate fluctuations. During the year, FDLIC increased the diversification of its portfolio by
both asset class and number of issues. Therefore, risk related to individual securities and single asset
sectors has been reduced.

The year was one of significant change and volatility in the financial markets. In March, the equity
markets retreated to new lows. This was followed by a significant appreciation through year-end.


                                                                                                           2009 25
The price of standard corporate bonds improved throughout 2009 as credit spreads improved with the
          general economy. Unfortunately, many asset classes, including non-agency mortgages, Collateralized
          Debt Obligations (CDOs) and Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs) continued to decrease during
          2009. These securities were impacted by a continued slump in the housing market and the failure
          of over 172 banks in the United States. Especially hard hit were Residential Mortgage Backed
          Securities (RMBS), as the majority of issues experienced acceleration in Constant Default Rates (CDR)
          throughout the year. Historically, FDLIC had a very limited exposure to these types of mortgage
          securities; therefore, FDLIC had the flexibility to purchase a few of the higher quality and discounted
          issues in 2009 in order to enhance return and improve diversification. At year-end 2009, FDLIC held
          32 issues of mortgage securities that were not considered either Government or Agency issue. These
          securities represent approximately 5.05% of total Schedule D Part 1 assets. This limited exposure to the
          more impacted categories has allowed FDLIC to avoid significant decreases in capital and surplus
          resulting from impairments of securities. During the last half of 2009 various swaps were performed
          in order to improve the overall portfolio and off-set any losses. In total, more than $2.3 million in net
          gains were realized. The majority of these gains will flow through Interest Maintenance Reserve (IMR)
          in the next few years in order to enhance capital and surplus.

          At year-end 2009, 95.82% of FDLIC’s portfolio of bonds and stocks was investment grade. Out of
          535 issues, 37 were rated below SVO2, representing only 3.58% of total assets. As of December 31, 2009,
          FDLIC’s allocation of U.S. Government bonds was 17.14% of total bonds; special revenue and
          assessment bonds comprised of U.S. Agency and municipal bonds totaled 2.02% and 15.44%,
          respectively; and industrial and miscellaneous bonds maintained the greatest allocation at 65.40%
          of total bonds.

          At year-end 2009, preferred stocks represented 2.56% or $15.75 million of invested assets, down
          approximately $13.05 million from 2008. The decrease is the result of disposals and reclassification to
          bonds. FDLIC will continue to invest in selective preferred securities only on a limited basis and
          consistent with the following parameters: a) dividends must be cumulative, b) the yield must be
          greater than or equal to the average sector yield of a thirty-year bond less a deduction of one year’s asset
          valuation reserve requirement created by the asset, c) the purchase of preferred stocks below an SVO2
          rating will be restricted, and d) the total amount invested in preferred stocks will not exceed 10% of
          the total assets of the company.

          At year-end 2009, FDLIC’s total common stock portfolio was $8.08 million representing 1.31% of
          invested assets and consisted entirely of subsidiary stocks. When market values in the public market
          improved dramatically in the third quarter of 2009, FDLIC disposed of its entire publicly traded
          stocks. Although capital losses were reflected in the income statement, the overall impact was


26 2009
positive to capital and surplus. Investment in subsidiary stocks improved $601,544 by year-end.

During 2009, FDLIC’s mortgage loan portfolio increased $9.43 million due to the financing of
existing commercial real estate as well as new construction. The mortgage loan portfolio represented
3.86% of invested assets as opposed to 2.62% in 2008. The mortgage loans made and retained by
FDLIC have consistently performed, and as of year-end, the company had no mortgage loans over
90 days past due.

Early in 2007, FDLIC acquired forty-one (41) investment properties totaling approximately $26
million. At year-end 2009, real estate represented 4.59% of invested assets compared to 5.55% in 2008.
During the year there were no acquisitions, only renovations to existing properties including the home
office property. Six properties were disposed of resulting in a gain on the sale. The typical lease
period for these properties is fifteen (15) years.

Cash and short-term investments were $1.89 million consisting largely of exempt money market
funds. This is a significant decrease from year-end 2008 when FDLIC held $5.82 million in cash and
short-term investments. Other invested assets consist of loans to parent that were issued in the first
quarter of 2007 and comprised 1.70% of invested assets. Principal reduction for the year was $373,730.

The portfolio is conservatively positioned to allow for continued improvements during 2010.
The portfolio yield and income are expected to be maintained through 2010 as investments continue
through the current low interest rate cycle and spreads remain tight. There are several agency bonds
purchased at a discount that are expected to be called, allowing FDLIC to realize the difference in cost
and consideration as additional income. No material changes are anticipated for 2010, and FDLIC
will continue to invest for the long-term in assets designed to provide a cash flow sufficient to
cover the anticipated cash flow of the
company’s liabilities. Diversification will
continue in order to reduce exposure to
single portfolio issues and FDLIC will
diligently invest to provide for the historical
investment objectives of the company.


LIABILITIES
At year-end      2009,    FDLIC’s    liabilities
were distributed as follows: 97.49% in
Aggregate Reserve for Life Contracts, .38%
in Provision for Policyholders’ Dividends


                                                                                                           2009 27
and Coupons Payable, .57% in Interest Maintenance Reserve (IMR), .40% in Asset Valuation Reserve (AVR),
          .32% in Premiums and Annuity Considerations Received in Advance, and .84% in all other liabilities.

          The life insurance and annuity reserves are primarily medium to long term in nature. Life insurance
          reserves are calculated on a conservative basis, with 84.20% of the reserves being calculated using
          an interest factor of 4% or less. Annuity reserves are equal to the current cash surrender value of
          the annuities plus additional reserves required by Actuarial Guideline 33. The terms of the annuity
          contracts are conservative, offering interest guarantees of 1% to 5% and no bail out provisions.
          The IMR increased $2.23 million or 213.58% from year-end 2008 to year-end 2009 due to net gains
          on bond disposals. The AVR increased $764,651 or 50.25% for normal reserving requirements.

          Generally, the differences between years in the other liability categories did not result from any
          significant changes in liability trends, but were the result of normal business.


                                                                   CAPITAL AND SURPLUS
                                                                   Total capital and surplus increased $9.20
                                                                   million for 2009 as compared to the
                                                                   minimal increase in 2008. The significant
                                                                   increase is due to net income of $6.01
                                                                   million and decreased non-admitted assets
                                                                   related to recognition of deferred tax assets.
                                                                   The company maintained a ratio of capital
                                                                   and surplus to total assets of 9.13% at
                                                                   year-end 2009. No material favorable or
                                                                   unfavorable trends existed         in   FDLIC’s
                                                                   capital and surplus accounts.


          Results of Operations
          REVENUE
          From year-end 2007 to year-end 2008, premium income increased by 24.87%, and from year-end
          2008 to year-end 2009, premium income increased by 15.66%. New business sales production for 2009
          surpassed $154 million and exceeded 2008 by 12.82%. In this decade, there has been a marked shift
          toward more single pay, which has also put pressure on profit margins. In 2008 that trend reversed,
          with about 3.5% of business shifting to multi-pay, though in 2009 about 1.3% has shifted back to
          single pay. These shifts are primarily due to the characteristics of new funeral home clients.




28 2009
Annuity premium income increased 8.75% over 2008 compared to the 31.33% increase from 2007 to 2008.
The significant variance was due to the completion of $13.4 million in trust conversions in 2008 as compared
to $4.9 million during 2009. Ordinary life, group life, and industrial life premium income increased
27.52% between 2008 and 2009. The amount of
ordinary life new business increased due to the
significant increase in direct new business sales
production during the year.

Net investment income increased $3.37 million
or 10.30% from year-end 2008 to year-end 2009.
The $4.59 million increase in investment
income from year-end 2007 to year-end 2008
was the result of a full year of income from real
estate investments and mortgage loans (with
significantly higher rates of return than bonds
and stocks) that occurred in the first and second quarters of 2007. Yields spiked in the fourth quarter
of 2008 and early 2009 and available cash flows were invested at spreads near all time highs, but those
rates were short lived as late 2009 brought lower rates of return and spreads tightened. Net new dollars
invested for 2009 were $71.92 million compared to $53.83 million in 2008.


EXPENSES
For 2009, overall expenses increased $18.43 million or 12.20% compared to $28.14 million or 23.51%,
for 2008. Death benefits increased 10.30%, while annuity benefits increased 14.98% during 2009.
Increase in aggregate reserves from year to year was 12.92% due to the increase in new business sales
during the year. Commissions increased 13.86% for the increase in new business sales as well. General
insurance expenses increased $957,361 or 7.80% for 2009 largely for additional sales and administrative
personnel and enhancement of sales-related programs. This increase is down from $1.38 million
in 2008, as FDLIC diligently strives to control expenses. No other material expense changes occurred
during 2009.


NET INCOME
For 2009, net income was $6.01 million or 484.89% higher than net income recorded in
2008. The following facts are relevant when reviewing the difference in net income between
2008 and 2009: 1) 2009 net gain from operations exceeded 2008 by $3.059 million or 74.58%
for significant increases in revenue, 2) FDLIC realized net capital losses of $1.15 million in 2009
compared to net capital losses of $3.07 million in 2008. While losses incurred during 2009 were


                                                                                                               2009 29
largely related to the sale of publicly traded
                                                                    common and preferred stocks, losses in 2008
                                                                    were entirely related to other than temporary
                                                                    impairments recorded for holdings in Lehman
                                                                    Brothers and Washington Mutual.


                                                                    CASH FLOW
                                                                    AND LIQUIDITY
                                                                    Through the consistency of premium income
                                                                    and the growth of investment income, FDLIC
                                                                    has continued to maintain extremely positive
          cash flow. Premium and investment income have allowed FDLIC to meet all obligations and invest a
          considerable amount of the remainder. This trend is expected to continue for 2010 and beyond.
          However, FDLIC has made appropriate plans for the future by continuing the investment strategy of
          matching asset maturities with liability cash flow projections.

          Despite the significant turmoil in the fixed income markets, 2009 represented advantageous
          opportunities on which FDLIC was able to capitalize. Moreover, the diversification and structure
          of the portfolio has afforded FDLIC the opportunity to benefit from the current economic crisis.
          For example, FDLIC experienced only limited write-downs due to the conservative nature of the
          portfolio. New cash flows during the first part of 2009 were reinvested at higher spreads; however, cash
          flows towards the end of 2009 were reinvested at tighter spreads as the markets improved. Together, these
          investments help maintain the portfolio book yield despite the low level of interest rates. The book yield
          did decrease slightly during 2009, but it remains above the year-end 2007 levels. The portfolio remains
          diversified and in a positive position to move forward in 2010 and the years to come.

          FDLIC has maintained considerable liquidity over the years and will continue to do so in the future.
          As stated above, current cash flow has always been sufficient to meet maturing insurance and
          annuity obligations, as well as operating expenses; however, if FDLIC is required, by some
          catastrophic event, to generate cash flow, it may do so by liquidating its marketable securities.


          CONCLUSION
          FDLIC has experienced steady and consistent growth over the last five years as evidenced by the
          Five-Year Summary with selected financial and statistical data (pg. 31). For 2010, FDLIC will continue
          its expansion into states outside of Texas, which now provide approximately 65% of the company’s
          new business production. As discussed above, FDLIC will continue to invest in accordance with its long-
          standing investment philosophy and fully expects to maintain its portfolio book yield and income.

30 2009
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 IN THOUSANDS

                                                                    Year Ended December 31
                                             2009                      2008              % Change
OPERATIONS
    Revenues                              $180,382.7                $157,257.0            14.71%
    Net Earnings                             6,007.2                   1,027.1           484.89%

FINANCIAL
     Total Assets                          632,476.7                 556,605.8            13.63%
     Reserves                              560,652.9                 498,397.2            12.49%
     Shareholder’s Equity                   57,765.5                  48,560.9            18.95%

EMPLOYEES                                      106                        90              17.78%

POLICYHOLDERS                              176,030                   159,681              10.24%


FIVE-YEAR SUMMARY
SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA

     IN THOUSANDS
                                                                    Year Ended December 31
                                          2009            2008            2007        2006            2005
   New Business Issued                $ 154,665.1      $137,090.9     $105,204.7    $86,429.6       $81,997.3
   Premium Income                       143,524.5       124,088.1        99,373.4    84,707.5        83,585.2
   Life Insurance in Force              422,570.0       377,177.0      342,147.0    315,542.0       296,962.0
   Aggregate Life Reserves              560,303.9       497,636.2      442,143.5    400,461.9       366,608.2
   Capital & Surplus                     57,765.5        48,560.9        48,511.1    45,428.8        41,453.7
   Net Income Before Capital Gains        7,160.1         4,101.2         3,091.7     3,332.3         3,872.3
   Total Assets                         632,476.7       556,605.8      500,388.9    453,382.6       416,296.8
   Net Investment Income                 36,118.5        32,744.6        28,151.8    25,092.4        23,351.2
   A. M. Best Rating                         A-               A-              A-          A-           B++
   Ratio of Capital &                      9.13%            8.72%           9.69%      10.02%           9.96%
      Surplus to Total Assets

INVESTED ASSET MIX
   Bonds                                    85.7%          81.6%          81.6%        83.6%           91.5%
   Stocks                                    3.9%           7.1%           8.1%         6.0%            5.4%
   Mortgage Loans on Real Estate             3.8%           2.6%           1.3%         1.1%            0.5%
   Real Estate                               4.6%           5.5%           6.3%         1.3%            1.4%
   Cash or Short-term Investments            0.3%           1.1%           0.4%         8.0%            0.5%
   Other Invested Assets                     1.7%           2.0%           2.3%         0.0%            0.8%



                                                                                                           2009 31
BALANCE SHEET
          IN THOUSANDS

                                                                    Year Ended December 31
                                                                   2009               2008
          ASSETS
                   Bonds                                        $526,728.9       $443,044.6
                   Stocks-Preferred                               15,753.7         28,803.0
                   Stocks-Public                                       -            2,534.1
                   Stocks-Subsidiaries                             8,075.9          7,474.4
                   Mortgage Loans                                 23,647.2         14,215.1
                   Real Estate                                    28,206.4         30,126.3
                   Policy Loans                                       63.4             51.9
                   Cash and Short-Term Investments                 1,889.3          5,819.2
                   Other Invested Assets                          10,464.3         10,838.0
                        Total Invested Assets                    614,829.1        542,906.6
                   Furniture and Equipment                         1,597.1          1,305.7
                   Deferred Premiums                               3,859.2          3,447.7
                   Accrued Investment Income                       7,855.1          6,993.9
                   Deferred Tax Asset                              3,872.2          1,260.8
                   Other Assets                                      464.0            691.1
                       Total Assets                             $632,476.7       $556,605.8

           LIABILITIES
                    Policy Reserves                             $560,652.9       $498,397.2
                    Policy Claims                                    834.0            797.0
                    Provision for Policyholder Dividends           2,200.0          2,300.0
                    Premiums Received in Advance                   1,835.0          1,527.5
                    Interest Maintenance Reserve                   3,273.8          1,044.0
                    Accrued Commissions                            1,525.2             69.3
                    Accounts Payable                                 140.4            110.1
                    Other Liabilities                              1,963.5          2,278.0
                    Asset Valuation Reserve                        2,286.4          1,521.8
                        Total Liabilities                        574,711.2        508,044.9

          SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY
                Common Stock                                       2,500.0          2,500.0
                Additional Paid-In Capital                         1,531.0          1,531.0
                Surplus                                           53,734.5         44,529.9
                   Total Shareholder’s Equity                     57,765.5         48,560.9
                   Total Liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity   $632,476.7       $556,605.8




32 2009
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
IN THOUSANDS

                                                   Year Ended December 31
                                                  2009               2008
REVENUE
       Life Premiums and Annuity Payments      $143,524.5       $124,088.1
       Net Investment Income                     36,118.5         32,744.6
       Other Income                                 739.7            424.3
            Total Revenue                       180,382.7        157,257.0

BENEFITS & EXPENSES
        Death and Annuity Benefits               70,589.5          62,100.0
        Other Benefits                            1,709.1           1,575.9
        Increase in Aggregate Reserves           62,667.7          55,492.6
        Operating Expenses and Commissions       31,661.2          28,655.8
        Dividends to Policyholders                2,829.2           3,202.1
            Total Benefits and Expenses         169,456.7         151,026.5
        Income Before Capital Losses & Taxes     10,926.0           6,230.5
        Capital Losses (Net of Income Taxes)     (1,152.9)         (3,074.1)
        Income Before Income Taxes                9,773.1           3,156.4
        Less Provision for Income Taxes           3,765.9           2,129.3

NET INCOME                                       $6,007.2          $1,027.1




                                                                               2009 33
STAT E M E N T O F S H A R E H O L D E R ’ S E Q U I T Y
           IN THOUSANDS

                                                                  Year Ended December 31
                                                                  2009             2008
           CAPITAL & SURPLUS
              Shareholder’s Equity Balance                      $48,560.9       $48,511.1
              Net Income                                          6,007.2         1,027.1
              Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments                 778.9        (1,031.8)
              Change in Deferred Tax                                  5.3           261.5
              Change in Non-Admitted Assets                       3,177.9          (904.9)
              Change in Asset Valuation Reserve                    (764.7)          697.9
              Shareholder’s Equity Balance                      $57,765.5       $48,560.9


          STAT E M E N T O F C A S H F LOW
           IN THOUSANDS

                                                                  Year Ended December 31
                                                                  2009             2008
           CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
              Premiums and Annuity Payments                    $143,228.7      $123,707.7
              Investment Income Received                         35,037.9        31,535.3
              Other Income Received                                 238.9           182.4
              Benefits and Loss Related Payments                (72,669.1)      (63,496.9)
              Operating Expenses Paid                           (31,067.0)      (28,237.2)
              Policyholder Dividends Paid                        (2,931.6)       (3,104.1)
              Income Taxes Paid                                  (3,594.9)       (2,414.7)
                   Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities     68,242.9        58,172.3

           CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
              Proceeds From Investments Sold                    189,380.5       118,175.8
              Other Cash Provided                                   594.0           375.7
              Acquisition of Investments:
                  Bonds                                        (246,429.0)      (158,698.4)
                  Stocks                                         (3,427.7)        (5,409.2)
                  Mortgage Loans                                (11,080.0)        (8,276.3)
                  Real Estate                                    (1,210.6)          (594.9)
                  Net Cash Used in Investing Activities         (72,172.8)       (54,427.3)

           NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND
                SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS                           (3,929.9)         3,745.0

           CASH AND SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
              Beginning of Year                                   5,819.2          2,074.2

               End of Year                                       $1,889.3        $5,819.2

34 2009
DIRECTORS INVESTMENT GROUP
          Board of Directors
              Allan Adams b Ralls, TX
             Mike Branon b Lamesa, TX
              Jack Cypert b Snyder, TX
           Jerry Edwards b Palo Pinto, TX
             Mark France b Austin, TX
            Robert Hamil b Abilene, TX
         Billy Ray Harper b San Angelo, TX
            Jeff Harper b San Angelo, TX
               Jay Kelly b Odessa, TX
             Mike Lemons b Austin, TX
           Carl C. Peterson b Abilene, TX
             Darrell Rains b Austin, TX
              Kris Seale b Abilene, TX
           Ernest Welch b Big Spring, TX
           Tommy Welch b Big Spring, TX
           Bob White b Weatherford, TX


        FUNERAL DIRECTORS LIFE
         INSURANCE COMPANY
          Executive Officers
                     Kris Seale
         President & Chief Executive Officer
                      Pat Baxter
 Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer
                    Mark France
      Executive Vice President & Chief Actuary
                    Terry Groban
  Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer,
                 Secretary, Treasurer
                 Dawson Rodriguez
Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer
                     Todd Carlson
                Vice President of Sales
                    Paul Lovelace
      Vice President of Corporate Development
                     Jeff Stewart
Vice President of Marketing & Chief Marketing Officer
                 Billy Ray Harper
               Chairman of the Board
6550 Directors Parkway
P. O . D r a w e r 5 6 4 9
Abilene, TX 79608
1.800.692.9515
w w w. f u n e r a l d i r e c t o r s l i f e . c o m




                                                         Item #200

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09 fd-ar

  • 1.
  • 2.
  • 3. Dear Friends b 3 Dear Kris b 9 The Sabbath Year b 11 Management’s Discussion & Analysis b 24 Financial Highlights b 31 Five-Year Summary b 31 Balance Sheet b 32 Summary of Operations b 33 Statement of Shareholder’s Equity b 34 Statement of Cash Flow b 34
  • 4.
  • 5. What an interesting and challenging year In fact, we did more than just come through 2009 was. For our company, it was another the fire, we accelerated and sped past! Every record year, but for me personally it was a year month during 2009 was a new record sales of true awakening. month for FDLIC (by the end of 2009, we had recorded 40 consecutive record sales After coming out of 2008, where the financial months!). While other financial services markets failed in the last four months of the year, businesses were reeling over the United States’ we began the year by attempting to make an tumultuous financial markets, FDLIC was growing assessment of where our country was headed and prospering. Literally, I was in total awe economically. No one really knew and experts were and amazement. stumped. All that kept coming to my mind about our company was “be intentional about staying the That is why I felt impressed to give something course.” Funeral Directors Life Insurance back to God. Through His guidance, wisdom, Company (FDLIC) has had a solid investment and protective hand, we (me personally, our strategy and a sound business plan for twenty management team, and our company) had been years, so I really saw no reason for us to not believe more than saved, we had been blessed! And that the principles we had preached and followed for thus grew the idea of the Sabbath Year for FDLIC so many years would not survive under fire (I mean -- where we would give every employee the businesses develop their plans and strategies in order opportunity to take 10% (a tithe of sorts) of the to withstand the bad times, right?). We stood firm, year off for rest, redemption, reflection, reward, we kept the faith, and we came through the fire! repair, relationships, and time to refocus. Earlier, I referred to being intentional about staying the course. You might be wondering, “What does it mean to be intentional about ‘staying the course’?” For me, being intentional means making every action count -- knowing what we are doing and why we are doing it. Biblical scripture says in the book of Joshua (chapter 1, verse 7), “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” (emphasis added). I like the picture of not turning to the right or to the left -- this is intentionally staying the course! 2009 3
  • 6. Here were the keys to intentionally staying the course during 2009: 1. Have a purpose worth living for. At FDLIC, we have established a culture of serving. All of our people see that helping others is a purpose worth living for. In fact one of our five Strategic Objectives is To Be Known as Helpers of People. During 2009, our Helpers of People Charitable Contribution matching program seemed to really take off. More than any other year, we matched charitable contributions that were made by our client funeral homes and by our employees. We see our opportunity to match the charitable giving of our funeral home clients and our employees as a way of supporting worthy causes that are of importance and value to the people closest to us. This program has allowed us to help organizations and people far beyond our corporate circle of influence in an intentional and meaningful way. In addition, FDLIC has seen increased use in our HOPE fund. The HOPE fund (Helping Our People Excel) is a program that we established to assist our employees with the “issues” of life, which range from financial concerns to marital problems to teenager issues to spiritual dilemmas. In other words, the HOPE fund is our means of establishing a safe place for our employees to share personal problems and issues in a confidential manner so that our company can provide help and assistance. In essence, we know that our employees spend most of their waking hours here, at work, and we want them to know that we care about them. We are a community of 135 people, every one of us has problems, and all of us need help once in a while. Originally, our HOPE fund was established to help our employees with personal financial problems, but through the leadership of Ray Thompson, our HOPE fund has turned out to be considerably more. 2. Know our strengths and weaknesses. I once heard it said that playing to your strengths renews your energy and your passion. One of our most significant strengths is providing a “great place to work” for all of our team members. Another of our five Strategic Objectives is To Be Known as a Great Place to Work. With a focus on being a great place to work, we have established an environment, a culture so to speak, that has been described to me as “family” -- to me, that is the most meaningful compliment that we could ever receive. In 2009, we did a number of things to improve on this strategic objective: Announcing and implementing the Sabbath Year concept. I had no idea that the Sabbath Year concept would be received as well as it was received by our people. They embraced the idea and came up with creative and meaningful ways to use the 30-days that we were giving them. In fact, I am extremely excited to see the fruit from our people taking a Sabbath after everyone has had a chance to participate. 4 2009
  • 7. The completion of a significant renovation project at our home office. FDLIC made considerable home office building improvements to our Management Information Systems Department and our Human Resources Department. These renovations were long overdue, but they have been appreciated by all of our staff. Continuation of our monthly staff luncheons and our Performance Plus program. As a means to keep our home office personnel informed about everything that is going on at FDLIC, we began having monthly luncheons more than 20 years ago. These luncheons have more or less taken on a life of their own and have become a fun, entertaining, and informative family reunion (I think family reunion is the best way to describe the environment). At these luncheons, we allow our people to give Performance Plus awards to each other. Each employee is allowed to give up to two of these awards each year to other employees that they see doing good work for the company and achieving one or more of our Strategic Objectives. As you can imagine, the presentation of these awards can get quite emotional and personal, which helps us in our attempt to create a great place to work. Upgrading technology. Surprisingly, most of our staff tell me that one of the primary things that makes FDLIC a great place to work is the fact that we stay on the leading edge of technology and supply our people with the technology they need to get their job done efficiently and effectively. This amazes me because I would assume that all companies would supply their people with the best in technology so that they can do their jobs better, but I have been told that other companies do not. Each year, we dedicate a portion of our budget toward improving our technology. In 2009, we upgraded our telephone system, supplied the majority of our people with new computers, and updated our software, which seemed to really excite and motivate them. 3. Prioritize our responsibilities. In order to intentionally stay the course, we have seen the need to research and develop ideas that will grow our company. As my father used to tell me, “You’re either growin’ or you are dyin’,” and I am a firm believer that in order to remain relevant, your company has to grow. To Grow the Company is another one of our Strategic Objectives. Over the past few years, we have subtly embarked on some new projects that have helped us accomplish this strategic objective. Regional Sales Vice Presidents: In order to meet the needs of our existing and new client funeral homes, we have had to shift some sales management responsibilities outside of our home office. As FDLIC has spanned out 2009 5
  • 8. across the United States, our Executive Management team was finding it more and more difficult to supply the sales oversight that was needed. Consequently, we created the Regional Sales Vice President position. Now, we have five Regional Sales Vice Presidents that oversee the expansion of FDLIC from coast-to-coast. Training: Our training department has grown in two years from one trainer to three. We have found that solid sales training has been lacking in the preneed funeral profession. We have made solid efforts toward building a quality sales management team by training them to better serve our client funeral homes. Our next objective for training will be to develop a strong program to assist sales producers to better represent funeral service to the ultimate consumer. Marketing Services: Today at FDLIC, we have more marketing services for our funeral home clients to select from than ever before in the history of our company. We have made a concerted effort to provide a variety of options in order to meet the needs of each client, as we strive to become knowledgeable, trusted business advisors. 4. Learn to say “no.” For a guy who really likes to do entrepreneurial things, I have definitely had to learn to say “no.” At times, I have said “yes” and a few (some would say many) of those “yes” decisions did not turn out as well as I had expected. The founders of FDLIC had a vision, and that vision centered around providing quality preneed funeral products and service to funeral homes with the firm understanding that the funeral home is our customer. This point was driven home to me early and often, and that is why one of our Strategic Objectives is To Be the Leading Provider of Service to the Funeral Industry. We have committed to this strategic objective and to our statement of purpose which is “To Be the Best, Most-Respected Provider of Service to the Funeral Industry.” Consequently, we have learned, and some of us continuously learn, that we cannot be all things to all people, and we have to say “no” whenever something comes along (as good as it may look) that ventures beyond our purpose. A famous Jewish Rabbi named Jesus once said, “Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” As with all of the principles that He taught us, we must take this to heart. 5. Commit to long-term achievement. The only way that we could have prospered in this negative economic environment of the past 16 months was through our commitment to long-term achievement. We realize that life insurance is a long-term business, and our funeral home clients and policy holders count on and trust us to manage their money well. In addition, they want to 6 2009
  • 9. know that they have placed their trust in a company that is financially sound and stable. Our final Strategic Objective is To Achieve Good Financial Results. We know that if we focus on our first four Strategic Objectives that good financial results will follow. We were very concerned in 2008 about our financial results which were negatively affected by our nation’s economic crisis, but after seeing how peer insurance companies performed, we celebrated our achievement -- which leads us to our 2009 financial results. The financial results we achieved in 2009 were far beyond what would be considered good. We rallied back from the difficult investment environment of 2008 and established record results in 2009. Honestly, our stellar financial performance was not expected. Let me share with you a few highlights: Total sales for 2009 closed the year at $154.7 million (a new company record), a 12.82% increase over 2008. FDLIC closed 2009 with assets of $632.5 million (a new company record) as compared to $556.6 million for 2008 (a 13.6% increase). Capital and surplus ended 2009 at $57.8 million (a new company record), $9.2 million better than where we ended 2008 (a 19.0% increase). Even with a shaky investment environment, FDLIC had $6.0 million of net income (a new company record), surpassing net income recorded in 2008 by 484.9%! With all that happened in 2008 in the United States, we definitely needed a positive 2009. We consider ourselves to be extremely blessed to have weathered the storm. Thanks be to God for the wisdom that was given to us to establish a solid investment strategy and a strong business plan more than 20 years ago, and thanks be to God for the courage to intentionally stay the course. FINAL THOUGHTS As I was putting my thoughts together for this letter, I bounced a few ideas and questions past my assistant. She really did not have any initial suggestions, but a little later in the day she sent me an email which describes our culture better than anything that I could have written. Here is what she said: As a new employee we are offered a position with a certain salary, job description, schedule, etc. We are told of the many benefits, including employee luncheons, health care, fitness center, possible incentive trips, holidays, etc. I say that to mention, in a short matter of time, you realize the most important bonus (of being part of the FDLIC family) is not something you can attend, have or use, it is our people. 2009 7
  • 10. Once you are hired, you are a part of the FDLIC family. One is not more important than another; you are an integral part of an extraordinary team. Our executives, supervisors, and Human Resources personnel screen and hire you to join the team knowing you are capable of greatness. Personally, I have experienced encouragement to take on tasks outside my so called “comfort level.” I won’t say I went “kicking and screaming,” but one notch below that and I was amazed that it went well. A mentor is an unexpected gift. Think about how many different people, personalities, backgrounds, education, etc. there are in our company. When I write this I see the faces of Craig (Loper), Ray (Thompson), Alicia (Rasco), Shaun (Gaffney), Iris (Williams), Gloria (Emmert), Heather (Guitar), Alvino (Sanchez), Zack (Shahan), Loren (Tatom), Terri (Bannister), and Gloria (Lantzy). We are able to engage each and every one’s talent and abilities and mesh them all together and have extraordinary continual results. My gosh, this is priceless! We have the wherewithal, passion, integrity and track record resulting in remarkable success in the most turbulent times! I may have used different vernacular, but I think that Angie (Holmes) has said it best -- our people really do make the difference. And her thoughts are echoed throughout our home office. For this reason, I truly felt impressed by God to give our people a Sabbath Year as a tithe -- God is acknowledged and our people are rewarded! Once again, I want to thank you for the confidence you have placed in our company. We value and appreciate the opportunity to serve. KRIS SEALE President & Chief Executive Officer 8 2009
  • 11. You spoke in your letter of “staying the course” with We’ve recognized that the Sabbatical is as much this company throughout 2009. With business a blessing as it is a challenge. “Keep in mind what plans, budget plans, and investment plans, the Sabbath Year is all about,” we were reminded FDLIC maintains a steady course even in the often. “Focus on your heart, on your renewal, roughest of circumstances, and we are thankful and your revival -- not someone else’s.” We know to be a part of such a steady and stable company. this is going to be a challenge -- the kind that We have not been blind to the fact that many stretches and grows you physically, emotionally, American workers are not so fortunate, and and spiritually. we are more deeply grateful for your godly We would like to thank you also that you’re not leadership than we can adequately express. sending us out on our individual Sabbatical And now, on top of giving us a great place to work journeys without some sense of direction. and a solid company to work for, you have done We were all presented with Waking the Dead, a what no corporate president to our knowledge wonderful book by John Eldredge, that inspires has ever done for his or her employees. You’ve us to understand what it means to be fully alive. given us the opportunity to take a 30-day And, you have given us certain guidelines as Sabbatical. Wow! Some of us are still in shock well…a map, so to speak, by which to chart at the amazing generosity of this gift! We are our course. Over the 30-day Sabbatical period, excited, nervous, joyful, and overwhelmed with you requested that we focus on areas in our lives gratitude all at the same time. that often go neglected: Rest: At least 9 hours of rest per day, with 7 to 8 hours of nightly sleep and 1 to 2 hours of napping or reflective meditation. Redemption: Time allotted for devotional or Bible study. Reflection: Journaling, meditating, praying (can be in conjunction with the 1 to 2 hours of dedicated day-rest.) Reward & Repair: Time for exercise, personal quiet time, and reading. Relationships: Time to intentionally devote to friends and family, and specifically to those relationships that have been strained or damaged. Refocus: Time set aside for a mission trip or service project. 2009 9
  • 12. From the bottom of our hearts, we would like to thank you for this opportunity…and also for this challenge to discover our true priorities in life, to experience an awakening, and to embark on a journey that we are certain will change us forever. Thank you, Your FDLIC Family 10 2009
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  • 14. REST If you were to ask the average American today how they were doing, they would automatically respond: “Good, fine, everything’s great! Just keeping busy! Actually, I’m in a hurry right now. I really have to go, but it was so nice seeing you!” Sound familiar? Very likely, we have all been this person at one time or another. Sadly, many Americans not only accept endless activity as a way of life, they wear it as a badge of honor, even a sign of importance, equating constant busyness with success in life. But in our heart of hearts, we know that simply cannot be true. We know that there must be more to life than this. What, after all, is the end result of all our restless energy? Our hearts grow cold and tired, we lose sight of our dreams and our sense of wonder, we grow disillusioned, even despairing; our relationships suffer from neglect, and normally, we’re on the point of exhaustion or breakdown. We yearn for something more: for meaning, for purpose, for a full life! It is a cultural epidemic…why else would the book, A Purpose-Driven Life, become such a runaway success? It is because as a society, we are caught in a cycle of living full, active lifestyles devoid of any meaning or purpose. In Waking the Dead, John Eldredge quotes Saint Irenaeus as having once said “The glory of God is man fully alive.” Eldredge comments on his initial surprise upon first reading this phrase: “…Really? I mean, is that what you’ve been told? That the purpose of God -- the very thing he’s staked his reputation on -- is your coming fully alive?” While we may have an overabundance of activity, by no stretch of the imagination are we “fully alive.” Could it be true that God is most glorified when our hearts are most fully alive? Then, we remember his promise: “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I come that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). If we are tired and discouraged, if we have all but given up, if we feel like we don't even know what living a full life would look like, there is hope. He says to us with compassion and gentleness: “Come to me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). There is a rest available to us if we only accept it. But we have to let go of our ideas of priorities on our time, our ideas of what success in life looks like, and the hardest of all -- our false sense of control. It is a leap of faith, a jump into the unknown, but the rewards are eternally worth it. 12 2009
  • 15. W OW ! It is hard to believe that the long-a nticipated journey has begun! I usually am “much for words” but the prim ary word all along for me has been simply, “WOW!” I am amazed and deeply grateful for this incredible gift. And I do so want to use it wisely, to bless and to be blessed. I want to share from my experience in September, 2009, when I first learned of this Sabbatical opportunity. Funeral Directors Life Insurance Co mpany was celebrating a record production for August. After enjoyin g the tasty spread and a few celebratory toasts, I switched places wit h my co-worker so I could cover the phone. As folks later emerged from the festivities, there was a buzz about “the Sabbatical.” Bits and pieces of information were given to me over the next few days, but I did not have a clear understanding yet. I was eager for the wri tten explanation from Kris to come forth, which it soon did. A 30-day paid Sabbatical with opportunities for rest, redemption, reflection, reward and repair, relationships, and time to refocus. WOW! (that word again!) You are spe echless and amazed when presented with such an incredible opportunity to know God and yourself better, to jump off that faith-cliff and see what happens that will forever cha nge your life, to be able to “come away” for rest and renewal and all the other delightful “R’s”! Susan Condry, FDLIC Company Receptionist SABBATICAL: TRIP TO ISRAEL 2009 13
  • 16. REDEMPTION Perhaps one of the most moving films of our time is The Shawshank Redemption. In it, the story of a man unfolds, a man who is wrongfully accused and put into jail for two consecutive life sentences. But with the help of a friend, he is able to escape his life of captivity and walk into a life of freedom and hope. Our hearts leap as the perfectly laid plans begin to unfold and the two friends are finally reunited on a beautiful, peaceful beach, far away from their former prison walls. Braveheart is yet another great film that resonates deeply with us. This is the story of a Scottish warrior who defends his beloved Highlands against British invasion. His cry for “Freedom!” can bring tears to the eyes. We know what he has suffered at the hands of the British, and we are certain that freedom is something worth fighting for…it is even worth dying for. When we allow ourselves time to stop, rest, and rejuvenate, our eyes begin to open and our hearts begin to awaken to new truths. We slowly become aware that we have been living in an invisible prison. We are serving a life sentence with no chance of parole! Hopelessly imprisoned by negative emotions, we battle daily with feeling frustrated, worried, unappreciated, resentful, lonely, angry, and needy. We are trapped. We desperately need freedom! As Jesus began his ministry, he made an astonishing announcement. Quoting from the book of Isaiah, he declared: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19, emphasis added) Now, Jesus did not suddenly begin springing criminals from jail. Even his cousin, John the Baptist, remained in prison and eventually died. No, Jesus was speaking of a different kind of prisoner: those who were living in bondage, those who were blind both spiritually and physically, those who were oppressed and forgotten. That’s good news, because that’s us! Perhaps that is why films like The Shawshank Redemption and Braveheart are such powerful stories in our lives. As these characters struggle for freedom, we recognize our own need for liberation -- from constant worry, pain, fear, doubt, anger, bitterness, loneliness, brokenness. We have been oppressed, blinded, and held prisoner against our will. We have labored under burdens too difficult to bear. We have strived without ceasing and gotten nowhere. And we are painfully aware that it is impossible to live life to the fullest in this state of oppression. But there is good news. There is one who is fighting for our freedom. 14 2009
  • 17. A P OW E R F U L M O M E N T I was given the chance to share my testimony on the second day of the Pastor’s Conference in Gopalpur, India. The reception that I received was incredible! I talked to them about my Christian walk and how God had really worked on my heart over the past seven years. Then, I told them about our company and how God had protected us from the financial crisis in America of 2008. I explained to the attendees that our company was offering a “Sabbath Year ” to our employees in thanks for what God had been doing in our company and in me personally. And as normal for me, tears were coming from my eyes. At that point in my testimony, Pastor Obed (our host and interpreter) unexpectedly stopped me from going further, and he asked the attendees to pray for our company, to pray for our employee s, and to pray for my leadership. Needless to say, I was overcome with emotion ! Here were 170 or so pastors, who had been recently subject to persecution, subject to all kinds of threats, subject to their houses and churches being burn ed down, subject to doing whatever necessary to protect their families, and they were praying for us! Words just cannot express the power of that mom ent. As I completed my testimony, Pastor David came up and asked for any of the men in attendance to stand who needed to improve their relationship with their wife, improve their relationsh ip with their family, and improve their relationship with the peop le that they work with -- and to my amazement, ALL of the men stood up! David asked me to pray over these men to close our session for the afternoon. Each day in India seems to be mor e intense and more amazing! Kris Seale, FDLIC President & CEO SABBATICAL: TRIP TO INDIA 2009 15
  • 18. REFLECTION What is your deepest fear? Do you fear never being able to measure up? Or do you fear what others might think if your full glory were revealed? What if your true self were laid bare for all the world to see? In the story of The Lion King, young Simba has fled from his home in shame and guilt. He has been told a lie and fears that he is responsible for his father’s death. All the while, he is running from his responsibility and his calling. Then one day, Simba is told that his father still lives! Filled with amazement and anticipation at seeing his father again, Simba is led to a pool where he looks in, only to find his own reflection staring back at him. He is disappointed. But suddenly, he hears his father’s voice. MUFASA: Simba. SIMBA: Father? MUFASA: Simba, you have forgotten me. SIMBA: No! How could I? MUFASA: You have forgotten who you are, and so forgotten me. Look inside yourself, Simba…you are more than what you have become. SIMBA: How can I go back? I’m not who I used to be. MUFASA: Remember who you are. You are my son, and the one true king. Remember who you are. Remember who you are. Somehow, we sense that Mufasa is speaking to us, too. At first, we may feel like running away when it is time to sit down and reflect on the direction of our lives. We’ve messed up. Badly. We avoid stillness and reflection because it might bring up painful memories and wounds. Or we might even have to face our own shame, guilt, and failure. But then, something wonderful happens. Our Father says, “That’s not you. Forget about all that and remember who you are. I have purchased your freedom, taken your failure, and given you my glory in return. Now, go show it to the world!” Are we inadequate to step into our destiny? Yes, there’s no question. But do we have help from our Father? Absolutely. He lives in us, and it is his glory that we reflect back to the world. The question is, will we be courageous enough to reveal the glory within? As Marianne Willamson so eloquently put it: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. 16 2009
  • 19. REFLECTIONS ON MARC H 1 0 TH Thi r ty-n ine year s ago , Mar ch 10 th became a sign ifica nt day for me . It was stra nge , because I had over slep t for scho ol, and I hea rd mult iple voices in my hou se -- the voices of aunt s, othe r fam ily mem bers and frie nds. Thi s was not norm al. My fath er had rece ntly gon e thro ugh surg ery and radi ation trea tme nts. He was now a shel l of his form er self , stru ggli ng just to move arou nd the hou se . Thi s was a resu lt of lung cancer, due to almo st 40 year s of smo king . Just a few days befo re Mar ch 10th , I had obse rved the loca l Method ist mini ster ente r our hom e, whi ch was unus ual. Righ t then and ther e, in the bath room of my gran dmo ther ’s hou se acro ss the street, I knel t dow n and pray ed that Go d wou ld save my fath er. I wan ted Go d to save him from dyin g anyt ime soon. Wel l, Go d answ ered that pray er, but not in the way I had hoped. On Mar ch 10, 1971 , I awo ke to find out that my fath er had died . The goo d new s is, I beli eve that my fath er rece ived Chr ist’s forg iven ess for his sins , and I fully expe ct to see him aga in one day in hea ven. So Go d did answ er my first pray er -- He save d my fath er -- not for a few more year s on this ear th, but for all of eter nity . Eve ry Mar ch 10th since 1971 has bee n a sad rem inde r for me of a life -alt erin g even t. But now Mar ch 10th has ano ther mea ning for me . It is the day I travel to Israel on a miss ion trip with frie nds, new and old, and the first day of my Sab bati cal. Wha t a won derf ul opp or tuni ty! I just wan t to mak e a diff eren ce in the lives of the peo ple that Go d puts in my life . As the Bible says , I nee d to dec rease so that Jesu s can increase (Joh n 3:3 0). May He be seen and glor ifie d in all that I do. Ray Tho mp son , Spe cial Pro gra ms Adm inis trat or SAB BAT ICA L: TRI P TO ISR AEL 2009 17
  • 20. REWARD & REPAIR “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” -- Psalms 37:4 They say it takes twenty-one days to learn a new habit, or to unlearn a bad one. In our hectic lives, we are in the habit of almost always relegating the needs and desires of the heart to the back burner. However, true reward and repair cannot occur unless we get into the habit of listening to and responding to the needs of our hearts. How do we do that? John Eldredge paints a memorable picture for us in Waking the Dead: I love watching a herd of horses grazing in an open pasture or running free across the sage- covered plateaus in Montana. I love hiking in the high country when the wildflowers are blooming -- the purple lupine and the Shasta daisies, the Indian paintbrush when it’s turning magenta. I love thunderclouds, massive ones. My family loves to sit outside on summer nights and watch the lightning, hear the thunder as a storm rolls in across Colorado. I love water too -- the ocean, streams, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, rain. I love jumping off high rocks into lakes with my boys. I love old barns, windmills, the West. I love vineyards. I love it when Stasi is loving something, love watching her delight. I love my boys. I love God. Everything you love is what makes a life worth living…A life filled with loving is a life most like one that God lives, which is life as it was meant to be (Eph. 5:1-2). And loving requires a heart alive and awake and free. What a picture of a heart fully alive! And how we have sold ourselves short so many times. Maybe we have been in the habit of working too much, always driven to succeed and perform. Maybe we have been in the habit of being short with our spouse or speaking in ways that discourage rather than encourage. Maybe we have been in the habit of ignoring our inner hurt, pushing it aside and moving on without taking the time to heal. Maybe we have been in the habit of ignoring the state of our hearts, our hopes, and our dreams, the things we truly love. Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Reward and repair occur only when we make our hearts a priority, rather than an afterthought. Like anything else, this new habit takes practice. We have to make a choice daily to make our hearts a priority. What are the things that you truly love? What makes you come alive? Think beyond what gives you enjoyment. What causes your heart to leap, awaken, and catch hold of a dream? When we pause and reflect, we will begin to understand the deeper needs of the heart, and reward and repair are sure to follow. As we allow God’s glory to shine through and we find our delight in him, he begins to slowly work on repairing the damage that has been done to us. 18 2009
  • 21. A C H A N G E O F PL A N S The last several days have ranged from stillness and study to total physical activity. Thursday and Friday I continued my stud y of Waking the Dead, and my spirit is being challenged by what I am reading. The biggest surprise of the Sabbatical is how being fully rested changes how you feel, how you relate to others, and in general your overall well-being. Part of the Sabbatical has changed dramatically since my Dad died less than two months ago. I planned to spend the first week in Lub bock with Mom and Dad and a week in Durango, Colorado skiing Purgatory Mounta in with my lovely wife, Lori. Lori and I had originally planned to spend this time together alone, but decided to include Mom and Marvin, one of my brothers, since Mom has not been able to travel for several years due to Dad’s health. So, Sunday we loaded up and were on the road by 6:00 am, stopped in at Lubbock to pick up Mom and had a wonderful time enjoying the beautiful drive and the family time. We arrived at Purgatory Vill age around 6:00 p.m. Texas time and walked into a beautiful condo that would be serving as our family home for the week. What a view from the windows! Marvin, Lori, and I have skied each day and I love the physical demand. Lori has turned into a snow bunny and her skiing gets better and better. We love being in the mountains and just seeing God’s artistry. It is abso lutely, unbelievably amazing seeing the beauty of the work of His hands. Mark Owen, FDLIC Regional Sale s Vice President SABBATICAL: LOVE & CARE MIN ISTRIES 2009 19
  • 22. RELATIONSHIPS “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’ And the head cannot say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you!’ On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable…” -- 1 Corinthians 12:21-22 In the great epic, The Lord of the Rings, a band of travelers come together for one purpose: to put an end to the power of a dark force that threatens to overtake the whole of their land. Though they are each so different from one another, all of them need each other. They could not have survived, much less succeeded, without every member of their fellowship playing a vital role. Yet our tendency is to dismiss the importance of relationships. Wounds may go unforgiven for years. Pride rises up and keeps us from apologizing. Blame surfaces. Bitter roots grow deep, and fellowship is broken. John Eldredge reminds us that, like the Fellowship of the Ring, which bands together to fight a war, we, too, are in the midst of a great epic war of mythic proportions. But we do not war against flesh and blood; we war against an enemy who would like nothing more than to keep us in bondage, steal our peace, and destroy our relationships. You see, relationships are holy ground. God created us to live in community, to encourage one another and lift each other up, to love one another as his Son loved us. When we break communion with one another, we break communion with God, and, for the enemy, that battle is won. Though we may see our relationships as ordinary, they are very special and important to God. One of the most common themes throughout Jesus’ teachings, Paul’s letters, and the rest of the New Testament is the importance of loving and forgiving one another. This is because the glory of God is revealed when our love for one another is made perfect. As John the apostle wrote: Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. -- 1 John 4:7-12 (emphasis added) Our family, friends, co-workers, spiritual community -- all of our relationships -- have a vital role to play. They grow us, teach us, stretch us, and give us opportunities to reveal God’s glory within us. They are fertile ground where God’s Kingdom is being spread, and territory is being won back from the enemy. Our run-of-the-mill relationships may feel like familiar old ground, but they are in fact part of God’s plan and purpose. Let us not forget when we draw near to another human heart, made in the image of God, we should take off our shoes and tread with care…for those relationships are holy ground. 20 2009
  • 23. A WEIGHT LIFTED I finished the book Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge this weekend. How wonderful it was! Oh, how it reminde d me of the love I had come to forget over time. It puts into perspective how our hearts come first and God is after our heart how he wants to wholly fill our heart and our life and our desires. I feel a peace as I am nearing the end of my Sabbatical. First of all I feel very spoiled. I love having the free dom to do other things, to help others. I also learned that once this time is up and I am back at work tomorrow I don’t have to give it up either. I have learned what God’s love for me really is and how to emb race it. I learned how to strengthen relationships I already have. I have learned not to take for granted these things in life. I have not mentioned much about my family and the relationships I wanted to restore. I have been able to do so with some, but others have been resistant. I can't say it is a failure, but I think in time God will restore what he wishes to restore. This is somewhat of a soft spot for me and God has been working with me on the resentments I have carried for so long. I have begun to let go of them and feel much better. It is like a weight is lifted off of my back. Oh, how wonderful God is! Kyra Shahan, Directors Choice Representative SABBATICAL: MEALS ON WHEEL S 2009 21
  • 24. REFOCUS Many years before GPS systems were ever invented, navigation on the high seas was anything but an exact art. When land slipped out of sight, you were navigating based on rough estimates calculated from the movements of the sun, moon and stars. Knowing where you were (and staying on course at the same time) was nothing short of a miracle. Take Columbus, for example. To the day he died, he was convinced his journeys to America from Spain had opened up a new route to the East Indies! He had no idea where on earth he was. Many times in life, it feels like we do not know where we’re going or where we’ve been. We’re tossed back and forth on the sea, adrift without a clue as to how to get back on course. It is time to refocus…and find a renewed vision and purpose for our lives. A song by Christian singer Brandon Heath expresses this very need to refocus, to find a new way of seeing. He sings, Give me your eyes for just one second. Give me your eyes so I can see. Everything that I keep missing, Give me your love for humanity. Give me your arms for the broken-hearted, Ones that are far beyond my reach. Give me your heart for the ones forgotten, Give me your eyes so I can see. Looking through the eyes of love, we can see more clearly what our purpose is and where our destiny lies. Doing this isn’t easy. It takes time set aside to be able to hear and listen. But just as a helmsman at his post, we have to stay alert, and diligently plot our course to stay in line with our one true Navigator. First, our hearts are awakened to the new life that is now possible -- abundant life. This is our final destination, but what a journey we have ahead of us! As hopeful as Columbus, we set out with high expec- tations through uncharted waters in search of the new life that awaits. Taking time for rest, meditation, reflection, and redemption, we hear the voice of the Navigator. He prods us, go this way, turn here. As it says in Isaiah chapter 30, verse 21, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” We must pause from our activity to be able to hear that voice. Well on our journey, we learn to understand the value of reward and repair. It is then that our hearts are strengthened to steadfastly endure whatever winds or storms may blow our way. We invest in our relationships and begin to understand what it is to love one another, and we are encouraged and bolstered on our journey by our friends. And finally, we learn to refocus, to see our journey through the eyes of the best Navigator in the world, who will never lead us astray. It is from him that we draw our strength and by his power we are able to see the journey through to the end. 22 2009
  • 25. T H E J O U R N E Y CO N T I N U E S Proverbs 12:20 says “He that trusts in the Lord, happy is he.” How true this verse is. I am learning tha t more and more every day. It seems to me that the happiest people in the nursing homes are the ones that have an abiding faith and tru st in Jesus Christ. They are the most content. They are determined to live each day to the fullest and enjoy whatever time they have left on earth. They are teaching me to live that way also. Yesterday was the last day of my Sab batical. It was a time of worship and reflection. Today, I wil l be back at work with a renewed heart. That has been the resu lt of the last 30 days. God has renewed my heart. I have trie d to share with you here what He has been doing in my life. It was impossible to share it all. I do know these things. I will continue to visit in the nursing homes. I have been blessed so very much by the people I have met there. I will continu e to be open to the leadership of God in my life. I want my life to be pleasing to Him. I will continue to preach and teach his Word because I know it changes lives. I will do my job each day as unto the Lord. I will continue to spend quantity and quality time with my family. The Sab batical may be over, but the journey continues. Leon Stone, Director of Sales Dev elopment SABBATICAL: NURSING HOME MINISTRY 2009 23
  • 26.
  • 27. Analysis of Financial Position For 2009, the financial position of Funeral Directors Life Insurance Company (FDLIC) remained strong as the company maintained an A.M. Best Insurance Company Rating of A- (Excellent) during the year. Operationally, FDLIC significantly out-performed the previous year’s results. Realized capital losses were down considerably from 2008 and related largely to the results of normal trading activity. ASSETS The total assets of FDLIC grew to $632.48 million, an increase of $75.87 million or 13.63% from year-end 2008 to year-end 2009. As of December 31, 2009, FDLIC’s assets were distributed as follows: 97.21% in investments, 1.24% in investment income due and accrued, .61% in deferred and uncollected life insurance premiums and annuity considerations, and .94% in various other assets. Invested Assets: For 2009, the primary investment held by FDLIC was bonds -- government, agency, and corporate -- representing 85.67% of invested assets or $526.73 million.The emphasis regarding the investment portfolio has consistently involved maximizing return, limiting risk, achieving appropriate liquidity, and matching the cash flow of invested assets with the projected cash flow of the company’s insurance liabilities. Throughout 2009, FDLIC maintained this approach to matching the expected cash flows. This conservative approach to managing assets has been consistent since 1993 and was designed to reduce risk and provide assurance that cash flow of assets is appropriate to provide for the claims of the company. The growth in company assets has allowed FDLIC to “average into the market” over many different interest rate scenarios, and in all areas of the yield curve. In combination with a disciplined approach to investing, this has enabled FDLIC to lower the market value volatility of the portfolio to interest rate fluctuations. During the year, FDLIC increased the diversification of its portfolio by both asset class and number of issues. Therefore, risk related to individual securities and single asset sectors has been reduced. The year was one of significant change and volatility in the financial markets. In March, the equity markets retreated to new lows. This was followed by a significant appreciation through year-end. 2009 25
  • 28. The price of standard corporate bonds improved throughout 2009 as credit spreads improved with the general economy. Unfortunately, many asset classes, including non-agency mortgages, Collateralized Debt Obligations (CDOs) and Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs) continued to decrease during 2009. These securities were impacted by a continued slump in the housing market and the failure of over 172 banks in the United States. Especially hard hit were Residential Mortgage Backed Securities (RMBS), as the majority of issues experienced acceleration in Constant Default Rates (CDR) throughout the year. Historically, FDLIC had a very limited exposure to these types of mortgage securities; therefore, FDLIC had the flexibility to purchase a few of the higher quality and discounted issues in 2009 in order to enhance return and improve diversification. At year-end 2009, FDLIC held 32 issues of mortgage securities that were not considered either Government or Agency issue. These securities represent approximately 5.05% of total Schedule D Part 1 assets. This limited exposure to the more impacted categories has allowed FDLIC to avoid significant decreases in capital and surplus resulting from impairments of securities. During the last half of 2009 various swaps were performed in order to improve the overall portfolio and off-set any losses. In total, more than $2.3 million in net gains were realized. The majority of these gains will flow through Interest Maintenance Reserve (IMR) in the next few years in order to enhance capital and surplus. At year-end 2009, 95.82% of FDLIC’s portfolio of bonds and stocks was investment grade. Out of 535 issues, 37 were rated below SVO2, representing only 3.58% of total assets. As of December 31, 2009, FDLIC’s allocation of U.S. Government bonds was 17.14% of total bonds; special revenue and assessment bonds comprised of U.S. Agency and municipal bonds totaled 2.02% and 15.44%, respectively; and industrial and miscellaneous bonds maintained the greatest allocation at 65.40% of total bonds. At year-end 2009, preferred stocks represented 2.56% or $15.75 million of invested assets, down approximately $13.05 million from 2008. The decrease is the result of disposals and reclassification to bonds. FDLIC will continue to invest in selective preferred securities only on a limited basis and consistent with the following parameters: a) dividends must be cumulative, b) the yield must be greater than or equal to the average sector yield of a thirty-year bond less a deduction of one year’s asset valuation reserve requirement created by the asset, c) the purchase of preferred stocks below an SVO2 rating will be restricted, and d) the total amount invested in preferred stocks will not exceed 10% of the total assets of the company. At year-end 2009, FDLIC’s total common stock portfolio was $8.08 million representing 1.31% of invested assets and consisted entirely of subsidiary stocks. When market values in the public market improved dramatically in the third quarter of 2009, FDLIC disposed of its entire publicly traded stocks. Although capital losses were reflected in the income statement, the overall impact was 26 2009
  • 29. positive to capital and surplus. Investment in subsidiary stocks improved $601,544 by year-end. During 2009, FDLIC’s mortgage loan portfolio increased $9.43 million due to the financing of existing commercial real estate as well as new construction. The mortgage loan portfolio represented 3.86% of invested assets as opposed to 2.62% in 2008. The mortgage loans made and retained by FDLIC have consistently performed, and as of year-end, the company had no mortgage loans over 90 days past due. Early in 2007, FDLIC acquired forty-one (41) investment properties totaling approximately $26 million. At year-end 2009, real estate represented 4.59% of invested assets compared to 5.55% in 2008. During the year there were no acquisitions, only renovations to existing properties including the home office property. Six properties were disposed of resulting in a gain on the sale. The typical lease period for these properties is fifteen (15) years. Cash and short-term investments were $1.89 million consisting largely of exempt money market funds. This is a significant decrease from year-end 2008 when FDLIC held $5.82 million in cash and short-term investments. Other invested assets consist of loans to parent that were issued in the first quarter of 2007 and comprised 1.70% of invested assets. Principal reduction for the year was $373,730. The portfolio is conservatively positioned to allow for continued improvements during 2010. The portfolio yield and income are expected to be maintained through 2010 as investments continue through the current low interest rate cycle and spreads remain tight. There are several agency bonds purchased at a discount that are expected to be called, allowing FDLIC to realize the difference in cost and consideration as additional income. No material changes are anticipated for 2010, and FDLIC will continue to invest for the long-term in assets designed to provide a cash flow sufficient to cover the anticipated cash flow of the company’s liabilities. Diversification will continue in order to reduce exposure to single portfolio issues and FDLIC will diligently invest to provide for the historical investment objectives of the company. LIABILITIES At year-end 2009, FDLIC’s liabilities were distributed as follows: 97.49% in Aggregate Reserve for Life Contracts, .38% in Provision for Policyholders’ Dividends 2009 27
  • 30. and Coupons Payable, .57% in Interest Maintenance Reserve (IMR), .40% in Asset Valuation Reserve (AVR), .32% in Premiums and Annuity Considerations Received in Advance, and .84% in all other liabilities. The life insurance and annuity reserves are primarily medium to long term in nature. Life insurance reserves are calculated on a conservative basis, with 84.20% of the reserves being calculated using an interest factor of 4% or less. Annuity reserves are equal to the current cash surrender value of the annuities plus additional reserves required by Actuarial Guideline 33. The terms of the annuity contracts are conservative, offering interest guarantees of 1% to 5% and no bail out provisions. The IMR increased $2.23 million or 213.58% from year-end 2008 to year-end 2009 due to net gains on bond disposals. The AVR increased $764,651 or 50.25% for normal reserving requirements. Generally, the differences between years in the other liability categories did not result from any significant changes in liability trends, but were the result of normal business. CAPITAL AND SURPLUS Total capital and surplus increased $9.20 million for 2009 as compared to the minimal increase in 2008. The significant increase is due to net income of $6.01 million and decreased non-admitted assets related to recognition of deferred tax assets. The company maintained a ratio of capital and surplus to total assets of 9.13% at year-end 2009. No material favorable or unfavorable trends existed in FDLIC’s capital and surplus accounts. Results of Operations REVENUE From year-end 2007 to year-end 2008, premium income increased by 24.87%, and from year-end 2008 to year-end 2009, premium income increased by 15.66%. New business sales production for 2009 surpassed $154 million and exceeded 2008 by 12.82%. In this decade, there has been a marked shift toward more single pay, which has also put pressure on profit margins. In 2008 that trend reversed, with about 3.5% of business shifting to multi-pay, though in 2009 about 1.3% has shifted back to single pay. These shifts are primarily due to the characteristics of new funeral home clients. 28 2009
  • 31. Annuity premium income increased 8.75% over 2008 compared to the 31.33% increase from 2007 to 2008. The significant variance was due to the completion of $13.4 million in trust conversions in 2008 as compared to $4.9 million during 2009. Ordinary life, group life, and industrial life premium income increased 27.52% between 2008 and 2009. The amount of ordinary life new business increased due to the significant increase in direct new business sales production during the year. Net investment income increased $3.37 million or 10.30% from year-end 2008 to year-end 2009. The $4.59 million increase in investment income from year-end 2007 to year-end 2008 was the result of a full year of income from real estate investments and mortgage loans (with significantly higher rates of return than bonds and stocks) that occurred in the first and second quarters of 2007. Yields spiked in the fourth quarter of 2008 and early 2009 and available cash flows were invested at spreads near all time highs, but those rates were short lived as late 2009 brought lower rates of return and spreads tightened. Net new dollars invested for 2009 were $71.92 million compared to $53.83 million in 2008. EXPENSES For 2009, overall expenses increased $18.43 million or 12.20% compared to $28.14 million or 23.51%, for 2008. Death benefits increased 10.30%, while annuity benefits increased 14.98% during 2009. Increase in aggregate reserves from year to year was 12.92% due to the increase in new business sales during the year. Commissions increased 13.86% for the increase in new business sales as well. General insurance expenses increased $957,361 or 7.80% for 2009 largely for additional sales and administrative personnel and enhancement of sales-related programs. This increase is down from $1.38 million in 2008, as FDLIC diligently strives to control expenses. No other material expense changes occurred during 2009. NET INCOME For 2009, net income was $6.01 million or 484.89% higher than net income recorded in 2008. The following facts are relevant when reviewing the difference in net income between 2008 and 2009: 1) 2009 net gain from operations exceeded 2008 by $3.059 million or 74.58% for significant increases in revenue, 2) FDLIC realized net capital losses of $1.15 million in 2009 compared to net capital losses of $3.07 million in 2008. While losses incurred during 2009 were 2009 29
  • 32. largely related to the sale of publicly traded common and preferred stocks, losses in 2008 were entirely related to other than temporary impairments recorded for holdings in Lehman Brothers and Washington Mutual. CASH FLOW AND LIQUIDITY Through the consistency of premium income and the growth of investment income, FDLIC has continued to maintain extremely positive cash flow. Premium and investment income have allowed FDLIC to meet all obligations and invest a considerable amount of the remainder. This trend is expected to continue for 2010 and beyond. However, FDLIC has made appropriate plans for the future by continuing the investment strategy of matching asset maturities with liability cash flow projections. Despite the significant turmoil in the fixed income markets, 2009 represented advantageous opportunities on which FDLIC was able to capitalize. Moreover, the diversification and structure of the portfolio has afforded FDLIC the opportunity to benefit from the current economic crisis. For example, FDLIC experienced only limited write-downs due to the conservative nature of the portfolio. New cash flows during the first part of 2009 were reinvested at higher spreads; however, cash flows towards the end of 2009 were reinvested at tighter spreads as the markets improved. Together, these investments help maintain the portfolio book yield despite the low level of interest rates. The book yield did decrease slightly during 2009, but it remains above the year-end 2007 levels. The portfolio remains diversified and in a positive position to move forward in 2010 and the years to come. FDLIC has maintained considerable liquidity over the years and will continue to do so in the future. As stated above, current cash flow has always been sufficient to meet maturing insurance and annuity obligations, as well as operating expenses; however, if FDLIC is required, by some catastrophic event, to generate cash flow, it may do so by liquidating its marketable securities. CONCLUSION FDLIC has experienced steady and consistent growth over the last five years as evidenced by the Five-Year Summary with selected financial and statistical data (pg. 31). For 2010, FDLIC will continue its expansion into states outside of Texas, which now provide approximately 65% of the company’s new business production. As discussed above, FDLIC will continue to invest in accordance with its long- standing investment philosophy and fully expects to maintain its portfolio book yield and income. 30 2009
  • 33. FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS IN THOUSANDS Year Ended December 31 2009 2008 % Change OPERATIONS Revenues $180,382.7 $157,257.0 14.71% Net Earnings 6,007.2 1,027.1 484.89% FINANCIAL Total Assets 632,476.7 556,605.8 13.63% Reserves 560,652.9 498,397.2 12.49% Shareholder’s Equity 57,765.5 48,560.9 18.95% EMPLOYEES 106 90 17.78% POLICYHOLDERS 176,030 159,681 10.24% FIVE-YEAR SUMMARY SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA IN THOUSANDS Year Ended December 31 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 New Business Issued $ 154,665.1 $137,090.9 $105,204.7 $86,429.6 $81,997.3 Premium Income 143,524.5 124,088.1 99,373.4 84,707.5 83,585.2 Life Insurance in Force 422,570.0 377,177.0 342,147.0 315,542.0 296,962.0 Aggregate Life Reserves 560,303.9 497,636.2 442,143.5 400,461.9 366,608.2 Capital & Surplus 57,765.5 48,560.9 48,511.1 45,428.8 41,453.7 Net Income Before Capital Gains 7,160.1 4,101.2 3,091.7 3,332.3 3,872.3 Total Assets 632,476.7 556,605.8 500,388.9 453,382.6 416,296.8 Net Investment Income 36,118.5 32,744.6 28,151.8 25,092.4 23,351.2 A. M. Best Rating A- A- A- A- B++ Ratio of Capital & 9.13% 8.72% 9.69% 10.02% 9.96% Surplus to Total Assets INVESTED ASSET MIX Bonds 85.7% 81.6% 81.6% 83.6% 91.5% Stocks 3.9% 7.1% 8.1% 6.0% 5.4% Mortgage Loans on Real Estate 3.8% 2.6% 1.3% 1.1% 0.5% Real Estate 4.6% 5.5% 6.3% 1.3% 1.4% Cash or Short-term Investments 0.3% 1.1% 0.4% 8.0% 0.5% Other Invested Assets 1.7% 2.0% 2.3% 0.0% 0.8% 2009 31
  • 34. BALANCE SHEET IN THOUSANDS Year Ended December 31 2009 2008 ASSETS Bonds $526,728.9 $443,044.6 Stocks-Preferred 15,753.7 28,803.0 Stocks-Public - 2,534.1 Stocks-Subsidiaries 8,075.9 7,474.4 Mortgage Loans 23,647.2 14,215.1 Real Estate 28,206.4 30,126.3 Policy Loans 63.4 51.9 Cash and Short-Term Investments 1,889.3 5,819.2 Other Invested Assets 10,464.3 10,838.0 Total Invested Assets 614,829.1 542,906.6 Furniture and Equipment 1,597.1 1,305.7 Deferred Premiums 3,859.2 3,447.7 Accrued Investment Income 7,855.1 6,993.9 Deferred Tax Asset 3,872.2 1,260.8 Other Assets 464.0 691.1 Total Assets $632,476.7 $556,605.8 LIABILITIES Policy Reserves $560,652.9 $498,397.2 Policy Claims 834.0 797.0 Provision for Policyholder Dividends 2,200.0 2,300.0 Premiums Received in Advance 1,835.0 1,527.5 Interest Maintenance Reserve 3,273.8 1,044.0 Accrued Commissions 1,525.2 69.3 Accounts Payable 140.4 110.1 Other Liabilities 1,963.5 2,278.0 Asset Valuation Reserve 2,286.4 1,521.8 Total Liabilities 574,711.2 508,044.9 SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY Common Stock 2,500.0 2,500.0 Additional Paid-In Capital 1,531.0 1,531.0 Surplus 53,734.5 44,529.9 Total Shareholder’s Equity 57,765.5 48,560.9 Total Liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity $632,476.7 $556,605.8 32 2009
  • 35. SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS IN THOUSANDS Year Ended December 31 2009 2008 REVENUE Life Premiums and Annuity Payments $143,524.5 $124,088.1 Net Investment Income 36,118.5 32,744.6 Other Income 739.7 424.3 Total Revenue 180,382.7 157,257.0 BENEFITS & EXPENSES Death and Annuity Benefits 70,589.5 62,100.0 Other Benefits 1,709.1 1,575.9 Increase in Aggregate Reserves 62,667.7 55,492.6 Operating Expenses and Commissions 31,661.2 28,655.8 Dividends to Policyholders 2,829.2 3,202.1 Total Benefits and Expenses 169,456.7 151,026.5 Income Before Capital Losses & Taxes 10,926.0 6,230.5 Capital Losses (Net of Income Taxes) (1,152.9) (3,074.1) Income Before Income Taxes 9,773.1 3,156.4 Less Provision for Income Taxes 3,765.9 2,129.3 NET INCOME $6,007.2 $1,027.1 2009 33
  • 36. STAT E M E N T O F S H A R E H O L D E R ’ S E Q U I T Y IN THOUSANDS Year Ended December 31 2009 2008 CAPITAL & SURPLUS Shareholder’s Equity Balance $48,560.9 $48,511.1 Net Income 6,007.2 1,027.1 Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments 778.9 (1,031.8) Change in Deferred Tax 5.3 261.5 Change in Non-Admitted Assets 3,177.9 (904.9) Change in Asset Valuation Reserve (764.7) 697.9 Shareholder’s Equity Balance $57,765.5 $48,560.9 STAT E M E N T O F C A S H F LOW IN THOUSANDS Year Ended December 31 2009 2008 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Premiums and Annuity Payments $143,228.7 $123,707.7 Investment Income Received 35,037.9 31,535.3 Other Income Received 238.9 182.4 Benefits and Loss Related Payments (72,669.1) (63,496.9) Operating Expenses Paid (31,067.0) (28,237.2) Policyholder Dividends Paid (2,931.6) (3,104.1) Income Taxes Paid (3,594.9) (2,414.7) Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 68,242.9 58,172.3 CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Proceeds From Investments Sold 189,380.5 118,175.8 Other Cash Provided 594.0 375.7 Acquisition of Investments: Bonds (246,429.0) (158,698.4) Stocks (3,427.7) (5,409.2) Mortgage Loans (11,080.0) (8,276.3) Real Estate (1,210.6) (594.9) Net Cash Used in Investing Activities (72,172.8) (54,427.3) NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (3,929.9) 3,745.0 CASH AND SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS Beginning of Year 5,819.2 2,074.2 End of Year $1,889.3 $5,819.2 34 2009
  • 37. DIRECTORS INVESTMENT GROUP Board of Directors Allan Adams b Ralls, TX Mike Branon b Lamesa, TX Jack Cypert b Snyder, TX Jerry Edwards b Palo Pinto, TX Mark France b Austin, TX Robert Hamil b Abilene, TX Billy Ray Harper b San Angelo, TX Jeff Harper b San Angelo, TX Jay Kelly b Odessa, TX Mike Lemons b Austin, TX Carl C. Peterson b Abilene, TX Darrell Rains b Austin, TX Kris Seale b Abilene, TX Ernest Welch b Big Spring, TX Tommy Welch b Big Spring, TX Bob White b Weatherford, TX FUNERAL DIRECTORS LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY Executive Officers Kris Seale President & Chief Executive Officer Pat Baxter Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer Mark France Executive Vice President & Chief Actuary Terry Groban Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, Treasurer Dawson Rodriguez Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer Todd Carlson Vice President of Sales Paul Lovelace Vice President of Corporate Development Jeff Stewart Vice President of Marketing & Chief Marketing Officer Billy Ray Harper Chairman of the Board
  • 38. 6550 Directors Parkway P. O . D r a w e r 5 6 4 9 Abilene, TX 79608 1.800.692.9515 w w w. f u n e r a l d i r e c t o r s l i f e . c o m Item #200