“Things aren’t always what they appear. . .” Do you remember hearing that said over the years? I heard it, I know my parents heard it, and I’m pretty sure my grandparents heard it too! Funny thing is, the quote never really resonated in an extraordinary way or piqued my keen interest – but it does now.

Let’s imagine the overwhelming pinning down today’s older Americans. Side-swiped by the unforeseeable, seniors have been grossly affected by never ending Covid outbreaks, increased costs of living (due in part to the highest inflation in recent history), increased work demands and even forced surrenderings to retirement. This culmination has our elderly pathway positioned for a financial avalanche!

By a certain point in life, you’ve had enough time on this earth to question some past decisions. It seems as we mature in age and wisdom, we also evolve in discernment. Many of us would declare with confidence those things we’d do differently – apply those lessons learned – if only we were allowed such a chance. It’s a torturous mindset that not only robs a person of inner joy but consumes and takes captive their hearts and thoughts.

We’ve all watched the classic scene in The Wizard of Oz where sweet little Dorothy and her friends cheerfully skip along the proverbial road to a better place. But, if you’ve ever enjoyed the book or play Wicked, you’d attest there’s a whole other side to its subverted story...