Elaine: Thanks so much for your note. I learned much of what I know about personal finance from Jonathan's work and benefited greatly. I have made it to a promising retirement by following Jonathan's core advice on minimizing transaction costs, dollar-cost averaging, diversifying, applying journalistic skepticism to the pronouncements of the financial industry, and reminding us periodically that the most important investments do not necessarily involve dollars. Jonathan was an amazing writer who had a great talent for picking relevant topics and not suffering fools gladly. He was also incredibly gracious: When you emailed him to discuss an article or sing his praises, he responded individually. In a meaningful way, we got to say goodbye. As you suggest, that consistent voice and presence cannot be replaced but should be succeeded. Since Jonathan's death, I haven't detected any departures from his core beliefs on the website, but it might be a good idea to lay out specifics on the direction of Humble Dollar and whether any considered changes have taken place. Perhaps the occasion of the publishing of Jonathan's final book would be an appropriate time for that? The best to you always.
I have thanked Jonathan on several occasions for his wisdom and insight. His body of work (and that of a rarefied few others) gave me the confidence to oversee my own finances profitably, avoid traps, and get to retirement in good shape. Foremost, Jonathan's integrity and good will toward his readers are unquestioned. Thank you, Elaine, for keeping the flame alive and for your role in Jonathan's professional success. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Comments
Elaine: Thanks so much for your note. I learned much of what I know about personal finance from Jonathan's work and benefited greatly. I have made it to a promising retirement by following Jonathan's core advice on minimizing transaction costs, dollar-cost averaging, diversifying, applying journalistic skepticism to the pronouncements of the financial industry, and reminding us periodically that the most important investments do not necessarily involve dollars. Jonathan was an amazing writer who had a great talent for picking relevant topics and not suffering fools gladly. He was also incredibly gracious: When you emailed him to discuss an article or sing his praises, he responded individually. In a meaningful way, we got to say goodbye. As you suggest, that consistent voice and presence cannot be replaced but should be succeeded. Since Jonathan's death, I haven't detected any departures from his core beliefs on the website, but it might be a good idea to lay out specifics on the direction of Humble Dollar and whether any considered changes have taken place. Perhaps the occasion of the publishing of Jonathan's final book would be an appropriate time for that? The best to you always.
Post: Note to HD Writers and Contributors
Link to comment from April 4, 2026
I have thanked Jonathan on several occasions for his wisdom and insight. His body of work (and that of a rarefied few others) gave me the confidence to oversee my own finances profitably, avoid traps, and get to retirement in good shape. Foremost, Jonathan's integrity and good will toward his readers are unquestioned. Thank you, Elaine, for keeping the flame alive and for your role in Jonathan's professional success. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Post: Jonathan and website update
Link to comment from September 20, 2025