Please know you, Jonathan, and your family are in our thoughts. He is someone for whom I have so much respect and gratitude, despite never having met. He has contributed greatly to many through his work.
Thanks for the article. While I always enjoy reviewing such lists, I agree that very few resonate. Tracking every expense or making a "budget" is something to which I've never adhered nor understood the point of doing. Instead, I periodically check-in on the big picture to ensure that finances are optimized and in alignment with values and priorities and make adjustments as needed (which may sometimes include actions like eliminating or tweaking subscriptions). With the exception of cooking, which I find enjoyable and relaxing, I have also come to terms with the reality that DIY is not my inclination.
Just writing to share tremendous gratitude for all you've created and contributed for the betterment of those fortunate enough to participate in this wise community.
My heart goes out to you and your family as you deal with this, Jonathan. Thank you for all the ways you've shared your talent and expertise through the years, and especially for building this community wherein civilized discussion about money and life can take place. With sincere gratitude and wishes for your wellbeing.
Thank you for the excellent article discussing such an important topic. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I was fortunate to receive when I was in my late 30s came from the lovely gentleman whose position I took upon his retirement. During one of his generous check-ins with me, he mentioned the importance of taking advantage of opportunities to do fun things (vacations, etc.) while working, rather than waiting until retirement when "your body might not be able to keep up with your brain". Though he was only 58 and in good health, his plans were thwarted somewhat by his partner's health. Another item I heard or read somewhere also really struck a chord.
It suggested that when it comes to three precious resources--health, wealth and time, it seems we are often only able to enjoy two at a time.
In our youth, we often have our health and plenty of time, but little money.
During our working years, we may finally have some money and still enjoy good health, but our time is limited due to all of the competing demands for our attention. In retirement, we may have wealth and more (free) time, but our health may be compromised.
Comments
My deepest condolences to Jonathan's family, friends, and readers. I am so grateful for the benefits his words had on me.
Post: Farewell Friends
Link to comment from September 24, 2025
Thank you for your commitment to maintaining this community.
Post: Quick Intro
Link to comment from September 20, 2025
Please know you, Jonathan, and your family are in our thoughts. He is someone for whom I have so much respect and gratitude, despite never having met. He has contributed greatly to many through his work.
Post: Jonathan and website update
Link to comment from September 19, 2025
Sorry to hear of the challenges that you (and your wife) are facing.
Post: A bit selfish, but still seeking peace of mind
Link to comment from September 19, 2025
Thanks for the article. While I always enjoy reviewing such lists, I agree that very few resonate. Tracking every expense or making a "budget" is something to which I've never adhered nor understood the point of doing. Instead, I periodically check-in on the big picture to ensure that finances are optimized and in alignment with values and priorities and make adjustments as needed (which may sometimes include actions like eliminating or tweaking subscriptions). With the exception of cooking, which I find enjoyable and relaxing, I have also come to terms with the reality that DIY is not my inclination.
Post: Ten Frugal Habits
Link to comment from September 19, 2025
Just writing to share tremendous gratitude for all you've created and contributed for the betterment of those fortunate enough to participate in this wise community.
Post: Four Thoughts
Link to comment from March 2, 2025
Dennis, your articles are always of interest. Thanks for the list.
Post: What I Watch
Link to comment from January 19, 2025
Sorry to hear about the rough couple of months. You are in my thoughts.
Post: Staying Alive
Link to comment from December 20, 2024
My heart goes out to you and your family as you deal with this, Jonathan. Thank you for all the ways you've shared your talent and expertise through the years, and especially for building this community wherein civilized discussion about money and life can take place. With sincere gratitude and wishes for your wellbeing.
Post: The C Word
Link to comment from June 16, 2024
Thank you for the excellent article discussing such an important topic. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I was fortunate to receive when I was in my late 30s came from the lovely gentleman whose position I took upon his retirement. During one of his generous check-ins with me, he mentioned the importance of taking advantage of opportunities to do fun things (vacations, etc.) while working, rather than waiting until retirement when "your body might not be able to keep up with your brain". Though he was only 58 and in good health, his plans were thwarted somewhat by his partner's health. Another item I heard or read somewhere also really struck a chord. It suggested that when it comes to three precious resources--health, wealth and time, it seems we are often only able to enjoy two at a time. In our youth, we often have our health and plenty of time, but little money. During our working years, we may finally have some money and still enjoy good health, but our time is limited due to all of the competing demands for our attention. In retirement, we may have wealth and more (free) time, but our health may be compromised.
Post: Plans Interrupted
Link to comment from May 31, 2024