How Much is Enough?

How much is enough? It is a question that each of us must answer in their own heart. There are two emotions that will lead us to a bad answer, fear and greed. They are not surprisingly the two emotions that most drive human behavior in the stock market. They are our enemies.

I am rapidly approaching a major decision point in my life, retirement. For many years I have been taking care of my money. Now it is time for my money to take care of me. Is it enough? I have run the numbers, many times, in a variety of retirement calculators. Even the most unfriendly and hostile of these programs tell me, “It is enough.” But my mind generates all sorts of “what if” scenarios. What if this disaster occurs? What if that law changes? What if? What if?

It is wise to count the cost. It is not wise to obsess. It is fear.

First John Chapter 4:

[18] There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

The second enemy is greed. How much is enough? I have read articles based on interviews with the rich. One man was unhappy because his yacht was only 150 feet long, much smaller than his neighbors’ boats. Apparently private jet envy is a real problem in this class. But really, are we any better. At what point does a stereo system or a motorcycle or the latest cell phone cease to be a source of pleasure? At what point do our possessions begin to own us, rather than the other way around?

Luke 12:

[15] And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

How much is enough? Of course the wise answer is, “Be happy with what you have.” Can you imagine how wonderfully simple life could be if we just wanted what we had instead of always wanting what we don’t have? I’m still working on it. When I achieve enlightenment, I’ll let you know.

Philippians 4:

[11] Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
[12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
[13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.