Money

I went from a feeling of sedate security to outright money panic in less than 24 hours. How did it happen? Well, I heard the news that my father (retired attorney) and my mother finally put together a will/trust. This was such good news! and I thanked God outright that they finally paid the money to protect their money and designate what they want done with it - if there is any left. Other pluses, there will not be a legal mess to deal with when they die and who knows? perhaps I will inherit a little security.

Though I have very little detail about their will, this secure feeling was nice and necessary as I have literally $450.00 in my 401K. I've cashed out various 401ks over the years as employment has changed for - bills, trips, a car, finishing the basement etc. So you see the thought of inheriting even a small amount of money brought me comfort - as I have nothing.

This peaceful, easy feeling however quickly faded upon having financial discussions with my father-in-law, among others. When talking to him, I quickly realized that my parents have enough income to support likely one of them in a nursing home. This realization quickly made me realize that I have NO income to support myself in my old age - not to mention nursing home coverage. Good God, if I make it to nursing home age - I will need $150K per year to live in nursing comfort. I don't even think social security will exist for me in 23 years but if it does and I am still living here - it will not even cover my taxes by then.

Good news a few days later I returned to my relatively normal peaceful state by simply not thinking about money at all.

Now I realize this money panic thinking is not productive. But I also realize that prudent planning is necessary. Even if I start saving now, I may have say $100K by the time I retire. What will that get me?

It's important to realize that people with oodles of money do have money problems and worries. Just look at the owners of the Dodgers who are divorcing . . .It would also be great to find out for oneself that oodles of money doesn't make you happy.

How to strike a balance? I really think the only thing one can do is to think abundant thoughts, think it will all work out, think I will have enough for my needs. Because the alternative is pretty scary. I've been there.

Unrelated thoughts

-A friend who visited Wisconsin described it this way: lots of beer, beef, and cheese

-I received far better service at Home Depot than I did at my bank. Who do you think will keep me as a customer?

-"I'll be with you shortly" doesn't make me feel particularly good.

-Seen on a beat up pick-up truck: "Reading and Spelling Tutor"