Hilly and I have always been of the opinion that material goods can be replaced, but family and health are the most important things. We are coming up on 30 years married this June, and while we have had many struggles over the years we feel that those struggles have made us stronger and closer.

We have never felt jealous when others were able to do or buy things we couldn't. We always knew that they worked hard for what they had, and were fortunate to be in a position to do what they wanted. We also knew that eventually things would work out for us, and all we needed was patience. I think having to struggle taught us about patience and humility more than anything else.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by benny

 

I am an immigrant from Germany, who was adopted at age 12 out of a going nowhere situation. I was lucky to be part of a loving family. I married way too young; had three children; and struggled financially for many years. Yet, I thrived and prospered, which enabled me to retire at age 50 with more than enough. I don't feel wealthy, yet I am in many ways. My children are all grown and are prospering. I still have a living parent. I have a great wife, a close bond with my only sibling, some real friends, and 5 wonderful grandchildren. I have and get everything I want and envy nobody. I am a fiscal conservative and a social moderate. I love this country and care about other people. Lots of retirement time has led me conclude: The real essence of life is having children and grandchildren. The Israeli proverb that "quality is always better than quantity, especially when you have lots of it." You do not have a problem if money can fix it. Did I say that I was rich in many ways?

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RC - Ryder
I am an immigrant from Germany, who was adopted at age 12 out of a going nowhere situation.

 

What is the measure of success? Isn't it related to goals and values? Dr. Clark's idea of success is being able to make enough money to pay all the alimony to all his x-wives, while still having enough left over to support the current young wife, and younger girl-friend. To me, having been married to the same woman for 35 years, and having an amazing teenage daughter, is about as successful as life can get. I think true success means being satisfied with what you see when you look back. I think being satisfied with your situation is more indicative of success than the anything else. Does that make any sense?

I'm uncomfortable talking about my background, and even more uncomfortable talking about money.