Then, the financial problems surfaced. She was entitled to only half of Mark's pension and Social Security. Her company could no longer afford to pay for her health insurance. Even though she received some life insurance, she found herself feeling very strapped.

As the years went by, inflation kept eating away at her lifestyle. She saw her medical expenses go through the roof, along with everything else. The house was getting older, and the repairs were costing thousands at a clip. Every time she turned around, money was going out the door.

A few years later, she had to sell the house. It was just too much money to keep it up. She didn't want to move in with either of her kids, so she used her money to buy a condo. It was not too far from her daughter's house, and she did go over there on weekends. Still, she was not content. Having to deal with Mark's death and then being forced to move because of money, was too much. It just didn't seem fair. She and Mark worked hard. They paid their dues. Now, when she should be able to see the rewards for their efforts, it just isn't there.

Now, at age 74, she can see that in the not too distant future, she will not be able to make ends meet. The runaway costs are impossible to keep up with. Elizabeth is in great health, and expects to live a long time. With her financial situation, she wishes she could look forward to it, instead of dreading it.

Have you ever known anyone who has gone through a similar problem? Maybe a friend, family member, or yourself?

This is a true story. It is an example of the false security that people feel about their economic future.

ANYONE WHO DEPENDS ON THE "COMPANY" OR THE GOVERNMENT TO HAVE FINANCIAL SECURITY IS IN TROUBLE!

There is no such thing as a company that will provide for you both now, and in retirement. Those days are gone forever. All companies are concerned with their survival, not yours. With all the consolidations, and bankruptcies, it is no wonder that corporations are changed from the old days.

IF YOU WANT TO HAVE A SUCCESSFUL FINANCIAL LIFE, YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE THAT CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN! THAT'S RIGHT JUST YOU!

If you don't take care of things yourself, you may be making one of the biggest mistakes of your life. You are probably in agreement with us on this point. You know exactly how messed up our economy is. True, we are not anywhere near as bad as Russia (Thank God!), and our comments do not reflect any political feelings.

The fact is that we are all in for some very hard times. The Social Security system has been "lending" all it's money to the US Treasury to reduce the budget deficit. Our national debt is increasing at faster and faster rates. The domestic and international financial crisis will affect us now, and for generations to come.