Friday, December 6, 2013

YOU DON'T HAVE LADY GAGA'S MONEY. NOW WHAT?




Shortly after an elderly white-haired woman visitor left their home, a young girl said to her mother: “If I could be such a beautiful, sweet, and lovable person I would not fear getting old.” To which the mother replied, “If you really want to be that kind of an old woman, you had better start now. She does not seem to me to be the kind of work that was done in a hurry."


David’s grandfather was something of a philosopher and never missed an opportunity to give out bits of advice to his grandson. One day he said, “Remember David, fools are certain, but a wise man is hesitant.” David then asked his grandfather, “Are you certain Grandpa?” Patting David on the back the grandfather answered, “David, I am absolutely certain.”


So ... 

Why do I write about the aging process, and then tie it together with the subject of "youth?" Well, maybe it is because when most people hear about "aging" and "preparing for death," they think that only old people die. 

Huh?

During this past year alone, the media has been reporting on car crashes, serious and rare diseases, murders, violence etc., and the majority of these incidents involved the death of young persons under the age of 30. 

Wow.

WOW! 

Consider this:

Howard was a wonderful young man who, from his earliest years, wanted to be an engineer. He studied hard all through high school and went on to a major University. This, despite the fact that his traditionally-oriented parents did everything possible to get him to change direction.

No matter. He graduated with honors.

He married his high school sweetheart, had two lovely children and was on his way to a great career. He was one of my dearest friends. The day after my father passed away, he and his wife came to visit me and he was fine.

Several days later, I learned that he was in the hospital. I rushed to the hospital to determine what had happened and he told me that the day after he visited with me he had suddenly become quite ill. He was diagnosed as having a terminal kidney disease, and died 60 days later at the age of 32. In tears, we held hands the night before his passing.

I'll leave it to you to figure what happened to his family. Needless to say, they weren't all that far down "Preparation Road."

Remember ...

If one wants to become successful in any field of endeavor it requires preparation, an education - be it formal, on the job, or in specific trade type school - and goals. 

My friend had goals. Unfortunately his family was left without him. 

Did he plan at that age? Did he not? Again, while you figure out the options, here is my thought on the matter: 

Never wait until it is too late. Plan as soon as you have the ability to do so. 

Chances are, Lady Gaga has more money than you ever will. She will do just fine, thank you. Going to a Lady Gaga concert may be great once, twice ... who am I to say? But take some of that time and money and - to enjoy life's journey to its utmost - get ready, get set ... and go. 

Be smart, whether you are young or old, and have a wonderful weekend ...

Bernard ("Bernie") Otis is the author of the upcoming international bestseller, "How To Prepare For Old Age (If You Haven't Married Into A Wealthy Family)". If you have a question or comment, please send me an email to seymour.otis@gmail.com.






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