My first retirement (teacher’s) began 29 years ago; my second (social security) about 25 years ago. I remember when I had to start paying SS taxes (FICA) I complained. I think it was about $8-10 a month. Now a person receiving $30,000 must have to pay about $200 a month – something like that. I made no other plans for retirement income.
I have friends who do not see “social security” as a benefit from the government. They can tell how the money they paid, could have resulted in so much more if they had invested in other ways. Probably so. Nothing that goes through government control comes out with much efficiency. I think it would be smart in the future to allow workers to make a choice about how they want their retirement money to be invested – in the government or in private funds. Too late now for me, but I am doing okay. I have good insurance for which I’m thankful.
Being on the tax payers dollar has given me the gumption to prove I’m worthy of the labor of thirty-year-olds who are having to put some of what they need, into such things as keeping me fed and alive. Thanks kids! And thanks to CEOs also – keep those citizens in worth-while and satisfying jobs!
During these retirement years I have tried to use my talents in some way that would give back to my country, my church, and my family to prove I’m worth my draw at the trough. 😀 One pastor even told the congregation that I was hired because I would work for less because I had retirement income. Now that will make one’s day! Fortunately my sense of humor caught hold. I did enjoy the job.
I found joy in my jobs. Idleness does not sound good to me. I believe I will be a teacher when I get to heaven. And a student also. Imagine having the time and resources to take a field trip to the Florida Everglades or go for a rock hunt on the moon.
The stimulus for these thoughts today was Psalm 128:2 “you will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.” Eat the fruit of my labor? That means I will not have to beg for my bread; I can work for it. I like that.
Sweet aroma 
There is certainly a profound truth in the quoted psalm. Working and earning does more than help our finances but is in will of God . He understands in infirmity and accidents etc but genuine effort and toil is in Godly order. (even to the paying of taxes to the Govt and what is God’s in our thanks offerings etc. .Thought provoking. Thank you.
Thank you for the comment. I’m concerned that our future generations are going to have more serious concerns with their governments that we are. Seems like the young ones are falling for what glitters. It is not gold. They are bankrupt concerning history, government, and economics.
The choice of taxpayers should be free. The direction for investments from retirement income should also be chosen independently
Thanks so much for this comment. However, I admit I’m not sure to what your statement refers. I agree with you about the free choice regarding retirement investments. But I’m not sure how I would handle those who say they want freedom of choice but then do nothing about putting money aside for retirement. Therefore they reach retirement age without means except to draw on government.