I totally get the argument...I do. I was at one stage in my life destitute...I mean totally without resources. This Hardship taught me that I must must become self reliant if I am to survive this world, and to never ever take anything for granted. I never asked for help...and none was ever offered.

35 years later...the utility bills and financial obligations come first....my physical health comes second, my comfort comes fourth. There is rarely any left over once I make the obligatory weekly deposit into my 'rainy day' fund. Sure I have a financial soft place to land now ...but that doesn't make me rich. Having peace of mind about my future makes me rich.

I still seek out bargains even for everyday necessities…I still steal toilet paper from public rest rooms…I still cut the tooth paste tube to get the last bit out.

Financial independence isn’t a right, and it isn’t luck…it is about being self reliant, resourceful and careful….and knowing that the next ‘rain storm’ is never forecast on the weather chanel.