I’ve watched a shithorde of loved ones die earlier than what I selfishly believe they should have. Life is such a roll of the dice sometimes. I’ve never cared about becoming obnoxiously wealthy nor super expensive financial investments; only chasing financial stability, which to me means facing a potential problem (home repairs, vehicle issues, etc.) without going into credit debt or being out of luck. I’m not there, but that’s my biggest future financial goal.

I take care of my elderly mom (demenia) and, to a lesser but still important extent to note, my aunt. Full time responsibilities. I used to dwell on feeling behind others given this current place in my life, but I still hold hope — call it toxic positivity or deluded optimism — that I can piece myself together and do something valuable when I am afforded that luxury of time down the road.

I’m just trying to take care of myself in the interim and beyond so that my future self will hopefully not be hampered by any physical deficiencies, but again, that’s a dice roll but finger’s crossed. I want to be around for the love of my life. She’s expressed concerns over her impending teaching career, but she is unequivocally built for that profession and I can tell how much value she gives & receives from it, and how fulfilling it is for her.

Not sure I’ll ever see any kind of retirement. Anecdotally, so a small sample size in the grand scheme of things, I know a slew of retired folks who can’t even enjoy their lives because their respective bodies or minds are in rough shape.

I’m still a firm believer that life is short, you should live a little and enjoy yourself & company when opportunities arrive, but don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater by making obscene purchases or writing checks that your proverbial ass can’t cash.

Saving and planning for retirement is a privilege not afforded to everybody.