I’ve never ridden an actual roller coaster in my life. While I generally don’t get carsick (unless
I’m trying to read on a bumpy, twisty road), I do get seasick on a
cruise ship in open water or if I need to use the head in the cabin of our 21’
power boat while we’re underway. I know
enough about whatever inner ear issue I have to understand that any enjoyment I
may get from an amusement park ride is not worth the dizziness and nausea that
will accompany it. However, this past
week, I’ve been on a virtual roller coaster that has more speed, twists and
heart-stopping vertical drops than any other roller coaster in the world. Yup, I’m invested in the stock market.
I know there are plenty of other riders on this coaster that are
experiencing the same highs, lows and frightening lurches along the way, hoping that the
wild and nightmarish ride will end before we lose our lunch – or much more of
our financial security. As long term
investors, Alan and I have always chosen to ride out the wild times. Our assets are diversified and allocated
properly in reference to our ages and our risk tolerance, and we’re fortunate
in that we have more than one income stream.
I may be optimistic, but I truly believe that the market will rebound sooner rather than later once the threats from COVID-19 have bottomed out,
although it might take a while to get back to the lofty levels we’ve seen in
recent times. So, while our stocks and
bonds are embroiled in the volatility that has defined the markets of late,
let’s check on my other “investments.”
