Some thoughts for my grandchildren

   I recently spent the weekend with my granddaughters and watched as they played. The oldest entered middle school this past September, the youngest, kindergarten, although I think she sees herself to be ready for high school. She knows more at her age than I did when I was her age.

   Listening to the screams and laughter, I thought about their lives and their future. Life is going to be very different for them.

   Looking back, planning for my life seemed so simple. There were things I expected would be in place such as  social security and a comfortable retirement. But heading into retirement in 2012,  being comfortable has become a concern. Looking at the kids, I can't imagine what life might be like for them.

   If I were to give them some 'grandfatherly' advice, what would I say?

   I would start by advising them not to take anything for granted. They will have to work hard and the rules will change at a moments notice. My generation had planned for a retirement that would meet the financial needs in hopes of living a comfortable life. But look at the cost of a loaf of bread. At age 25, who suspected that the price of gasoline would be over $4 per gallon when it was once 45 cents or that a gallon of milk would cost nearly the same as a six pack of beer.

   I had hoped that a health care system would be affordable and that it would help pay some medical expenses and  issues that come along with old age. I expected to live in a society where age was something that was honored and not viewed by the young as a burden. But today, being old is now almost a crime.

  I would encourage them to plan for the 'unexpected.' and take personal responsibility for their future. I hope they will live a long and wonderful life, but know that many things will change, just as they did for me. Anticipate change and embrace it.

   Expect that technology will change the world as I know it today. They may work longer than I and that 'going to the office' might mean sitting at the kitchen counter in pajamas typing on a computer. 
   Star Trek may actually become a reality as they may be beamed up to the grocery store. What's a grocery store anyhow?

   Retirement will not be the life changing event at age 62,  65 or 67. They may work longer because they will be living longer and will need the income. Can you imaging working at 75 or 85.

   There are some other considerations too. They, along with their children, may grow old together. Seventy five year wedding anniversaries many not be uncommon or divorces may become more popular as long term relationships wane in the senior years.

   Communal living, a way of life in the 1960's, may be reborn as seniors seek the companionship and friendship of peers of similar age. Assisted living may move from 'the nursing home' back to the family home.

   The current decisions being made today in Washington or Augusta about an older society seem to lack focus and a genuine concern. They are a bit short sighted. What is lacking is balance between the greed of today  and a vision and plan for life in the future.
   I have lived a good life. I can sit in the sun and watch the grandchildren play. I sincerely hope my generation doesn't ruin their future and  the opportunities to share some 'grandfatherly' advice with their grandchildren.