After a beautiful scenic-filled day along the coast of the
Pacific Ocean, I was awakened by a text at 3:30am that hurt my heart. A friend’s husband had suddenly passed away
at a young age. As I lay there praying for her and her children and reflecting
on the day’s journey that lay before me, I once again thought of the importance
of preparing for the future.
Most of those traveling with me I know personally. Many of
them, like my friend, had experienced their share of heartaches. Some of them had done what no parent should
ever have to do, bury their child. Several
had buried mates, and many had fought the battle of cancer themselves or with
loved ones. All of which no doubt had financial implications.
Did they make smart financial decisions in their 20s and 30s
that allowed them to now be traveling and enjoy life to the fullest? My guess is yes! Studies have shown that even minor
contributions made in your 20s and 30s can have a higher payout in retirement
than if you were to make larger contributions in your 40s and 50s.
So, why do so many wait to save for retirement or for the
unexpected? Is it a lack of desire to enjoy life in later years? Is it because
they don’t feel like they have the money or that they have plenty of time? Whatever the reason, I was blessed to witness the
laughter, and sheer excitement on the faces of my life weary travelers. To paraphrase Mark Twain, “Even if I never
have millions, I would never turn down the position!" I will continue to
encourage everyone to start saving today because we may not know what the
future holds, but none of us would ever turn down the position to enjoy the
ride.
