Valentine's is a season of flowers, cards, candy, and love. Wouldn't it be great if there was more of this affection spread around the world? It seems so simple…LOVE.
In my travels worldwide, meeting people from other countries has been great. It was interesting to see how cultures differ when it comes to the subject of love. When we visited Africa and the Middle East, saying the word 'love' was a rare occurrence, and even saying the word could lead the listener to think of it as a marriage proposal. In other countries, the word is never spoken by the male members of the family because it is regarded as showing emotional weakness. In Italy and France, romantic uses of 'Amor' and 'Amore' are rampant. You must also say the words slowly and with feeling to get the full effect. (You're saying it now, aren't you…ha-ha).
Compared to other countries, Americans are likely guilty of using the 'love' word too casually in everyday music and relationships. Growing up a poor kid made me appreciate that hard work and determination go a long way to success. But having a supporting, caring, and loving partner to share your life with is the primary ingredient for many a successful life.
So, in this season, spread the love to as many as you can. You'll find it to be of benefit to you as well. Happy Valentine's Day!
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's wisdom about love and partnership really hits home when you think about retirement planning. Most people don't realize how important it is to have those conversations with your spouse or partner about your financial future together. I see couples all the time who've been married 30 or 40 years but have never talked about when they want to retire or how they'll handle Medicare decisions together.
Here's something that might surprise you: Social Security spousal benefits can provide up to 50% of your partner's benefit amount, and survivor benefits can be even more valuable for long-term financial security. When couples plan together for things like Medicare enrollment periods, 401k withdrawal strategies, and estate planning, they're showing that same love and support David talks about, just in a different way.
The good news is that having these planning conversations actually brings couples closer together. Once you see how it all works together, it's really about taking care of each other for the long haul.