Those who know me know that I truly believe that good things come out of bad situations. On the other hand, bad situations are still bad situations and they must be dealt with and more importantly experienced. There is often as much or more to learn from bad situations as from good ones. Recently, Ken and I met with our estate attorney to begin the process of how our finances will be managed while I am in prison. I knew that I would have to sign a power of attorney giving Ken full control over our finances while I am away. What I was not prepared for was the term our attorney used for my upcoming status – “incapacitated.” For some reason that word was like a blow to the stomach. I wanted to say, “but I am not entering into a persistent vegetative state!” In a sense, I feel like I am embarking down the road of being a “non-person.” I anticipate that I will be losing a lot of rights that I take for granted over the next few years and that much of this – whether intended or not – will make me feel less than human. A similar example occurred several months ago. I had informed my financial advisor at Schwab of my legal issues. A month later I received a letter from Schwab stating that they were closing all of my accounts, including my IRA (and all of Ken’s accounts as well). I am prepared for a series of these indignities and, although I will experience and learn from each of them, I will not let them affect my core and who I really am.
David Applegate
David,
Stay strong! You’re very realistic about what your future will look like in the next few years. What’s been happening to you (Schwab example) sucks and I don’t understand an action like that; however, every day life holds surprises…good and bad ones. Keep dealing with this using your humor and you will come out fine in the end.
That’s really weird. This is a learning experience for all of us! Thanks for taking the trouble to share your thoughts on these matters — it’s very worthwhile and appreciated.
So glad I fired Schwab 10 years ago. This confirms my suspicion about their small minded management.
There is a devotional book I have been reading this year called, “Jesus Calling”. The author has expressed each devotional as if it were a conversation with God. Several of them have been about the topic of “letting go” and walking the path in front of you. I can appreciate your control freak mentality – I have it as well. God speed!
David, you are a good person and while sometimes bad things happen to good people we who know you know just how good you truly are. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!