One decision took longer than all the others.

After paying my debts, reserving enough for the future, and making the charitable commitment, there was still money left.

For months I treated leaving it untouched as proof I wasn’t taking advantage of a gift I had never expected.

Miriam eventually pointed out that refusing to plan could also create problems.

I set up emergency savings, made a retirement plan, and helped my parents replace the unreliable heating system in their home.

My father protested that they’d managed with the old one for years.