The good news is that the suspension of the UW Band has ended and football games should get back to their normal "craziness". The bad news is that we have to look at strange designs shaved into the heads of various band members including images of genitalia.
I have one very small (I emphasize the word "small") IRA with a local investment firm. My broker, Will Steelurdoe (say his name to yourself out-loud), sent a personal letter summarizing current economic market conditions. He is concerned about "how nervous I may be". He reiterizes that "patience is a virtue". His advice is to be "calm and patient". What is wrong with this picture? Things are pretty tough when you broker knows you lost your ass and he tells you to keep your cool. Isn't that like being on the Titantic after hitting the iceberg and everyone tells you to remain cool. You'll be cool alright. Wait until your ship goes down and your ass slips into the freezing ocean!
Actually the broker is partially right. Most people make panic decisions in time of crisis and the best solution is really "to do nothing". Economic conditions are going to suck for a while but they will turn. In the meantime keep your money in FDIC insured saving and checking accounts, control expenditures and snuggle with the one you love in front of your TV.
I do get a little bit of angered by the financial gurus that play with your hard earned money and treat it in a very cavalier way. The banks, the brokerages and yes, even your esteemed representatives in Congress, rip off the hard working public with their schemes and underhanded dealings. The last time I looked, many Congressmen and Senators are becoming instant millionaires once they get into office. Obama became a millionaire as public servant. I'd like to know if they have any job openings because I could certainly use a cash infusion.
But alas, I have an emergency plan. I did't raise 5 kids for 30-50 years at great expense for nothing. The plan is for Mom and I to live with each of our kids during difficult times. That will take care of the shelter and food. I'm sure we can mooch lots of other things. The reason kids exist is to take care of their parents in their old age.
The lesson Grasshoppers is that financial "well being" is a personal responsibility. The only person you can trust with your money is you. Emergencies are part of life. Planning should include emergencies! I'm going to say it again! The only one you can trust with your money is you.
Love,
Dad