Yes, Count your Pennies

 

Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Matthew 6:19 NLT

The Mid–Stage of my life arrived much faster than I anticipated. Much to my surprise, when I received my pre-retirement Social Security benefit statement, it informed me that I have worked since the age of 13. However, the math and the retirement funds that I would receive did not coincide. In three years, I would be entitled to a gratuitous 75% percent of my calculated monthly payoff. However, if I would only wait until the ripe age of 66, then I would receive 100% of my benefits. I continued to look in disbelief; based on my calculations, I should have an increase of at least 50%. My plan to relax on a Caribbean beach for at least six months a year was not going to happen.

So, before you think, “oh well, she didn’t manage her finances correctly.” I want to clarify that I did not splurge. In fact, I paid for necessities-food, housing, car note, auto insurance, clothing, etc. As a single woman until 51, I had budgeted quite well-which enabled me to take a few enjoyable vacations, and give 15% charitable contributions in the form of tithe and offerings. My financial plan began to unravel three years ago, when my health took a substantial turn. As a healthcare professional providing care to patients, I worked in a fast-paced environment that required standing, and running around most of the 8-12 hour shift. I begin to notice the joint pain in both of my knees, which required frequent sit breaks. I remained in denial regarding my condition and did not seek medical intervention. It was only during a trip to Upstate NY where my left knee hyperextended and I returned home with an immobilizer and crutches. Subsequent follow-ups with my PCP and three orthopedic surgeons revealed a diagnosis of Bilateral End-Stage Osteoarthritis with recommendations for knee replacements.

I have recently performed a list of my assets according to biblical standards, and I am in good standing. God has supplied all of my needs, and I am doing fairly well with the desirable wants. Now I have to restructure and refocus my mindset. I do not need to “shop” for unneeded items. In fact, I am in the process of collecting clothing and other items (for donation) that I will never use again. Did it require a decline in my health status for me to start counting my blessings and stop spending the resources that God has provided for me? I will continue to ponder on that question. Who knows with the money I am no longer spending, my dream for time on that Caribbean beach may be within reach.