This came, all at once, I don't want to edit and may actually do another but so I won't obsess, change, rearrange. I am sending it off. Godspeed!

Looking Back It's 2008. The new millennium. I have made great strides in putting my financial house in order.

What is that expression "every great journey begins with a step" or some such. Well, if I can paraphrase without botching it - "my financial journey began with a touch."

Getting in touch with how I view money, what drives me to amass it, sometimes at the bedevilment of my own self, was an eye opener. Once I could understand how I felt about money I could stop fearing it, and my ability to manage it. Wisely.

Today, I look around and I am comfortable. I have more than enough money to keep my family secure. I have sufficient insurance. I own a reliable vehicle, the mortgage is almost paid and I am debt free - a place I like to be.

At the same time, my budget allows me to afford all the necessities and the extras. I can save without feeling pinched. And I can spend without feeling bloated and guilty.

I am at peace with money. It no longer tortures me. I do not feel like Scrooge in a corner trying to save save save for that rainy day. I can trust my own voice, and put in practice a sane and humane way to "save for the future" without taking the joy out of living for today.

I have much to be thankful for. Getting clear about what is important and living mindfully is wonderful.

I look back at where I came from and understand. I look ahead at where I want to be and it's right here.