Blog nr. 28

Today's rant is about a "sacred cow" called SOCIAL SECURITY.

When I first entered the workforce (1955) Social Security was the primary savings for retirees. Ergo, I didn't commence on any type savings plan. But, as I got further along in my career (both in the military and later) I decided savings such as an IRA would be prudent. So I got an IRA and went about my business.

Unfortunately, many others did not, thinking Social Security would provide enough for elderly folks, both single and married, to live "happily ever after".

In today's difficule times, the foks that are dependent on Social Security alone are in a bad way. I am sure if they had anticipated this, they would have made alternate plans for their "golden years".

There will be no cost-of-living increases for those on Social Security again this year. Is this equitable??? HELL NO!!!!!!

I know of many elderly citizens who will be hurt badly due to this "broken promise" from our government. My heart goes out to them. THIS IS FLAT WRONG!!!!!!

There is enough Internet chatter, media publicity, etc., as to why, who is at fault, etc....But this needs to be addressed. We (the American people) have brought this upon ourselves, by becoming too dependent on "government" to fix problems. This phenomena will take generations to correct. And, sadly, I see no political party in existence today that will have the "cajones" to try and fix it. George W. Bush tried to bring it up and was not supported by ANYONE.

To my children and grand-children, I apoligize for aiding/abetting our government for the past many years to put us in this fix. I also STRONGLY recommend that you prepare yourselves for retirement by establishing some type of savings plan to ensure you golden years are not bedded in poverty. (I know it will be tough).

I also draw a military retirement check each month.....the past couple of years we have received no "cost-of-living" increases either. I can live without it, but again there are others that are dependent on this.

I won't even get into medical care...........that will be the issue that will break all our backs.

What I will do is say this to our politicians (what a dirty word!)....either fix this problem or put yourselves under the same "benefits" and restrictions regarding pay raises and medical programs or you will have an even bigger problem on your hands.