Money matters is a new mantra

Not that money is something that really matters, but if your money matters are out of order, it can really get in the way of doing what it is you are supposed to be doing. The last thing I want to do at the ashram is worry about money! Many of us kind of free spirits disdain money, but if you're doing good things to get it and good things with it, then I think it's ok. Today was money day. I met with a real live financial planner today. Left to my own devices, I tend to spend rather than save. I've tried in fits and starts to set up retirement plans. I have like five different 401ks with a few bucks in them. Money burns a hole in my pocket, too. So I get laid off and get this huge severance package. Really nice! My problem is that I could easily spend several months severance on foolish things like new clothes, fancy dinners, spa treatments, and already had a really good head start before I met with the planner. I am very excited that a friend referred me to the "financial planner to the crunchy gentletownsfolks" and now I don't even have to deal with the paperwork and magically all my 401k accounts will be merged. He will manage my severance and put it somewhere liquid ... Like having a responsible baby sitter for my money. This is very good! It's good to know your weaknesses and get help! And it doesn't even cost anything. It's actually probably less than I'm spending right now because of the consolidation of the separate investment account fees. Oh, they even have socially responsible investing so I don't have to worry that I'm profiting from the suffering of others or from the destruction of the planet. The fund engages in investor activism too to help guide corporations to engage more favorably with employees and the environment. Pretty cool!