Spread a Little Love

February 14, 2025

Happy Valentine's Day!

History is not very clear as to who the true Saint Valentine was.  There were more than a few priests, bishops and martyrs in Italy who were named Valentine in early Christianity.  Two of them might even have been the same person.

Most likely, the one we commemorate on February 14th is Valentine, the Bishop of Rome. Saint Valentine is said to have married couples in secret in defiance of the Roman Emperor, and he himself fell in love with his jailer’s daughter.  He signed letters to her, “Your Valentine.” He was martyred on February 14, 269 A.D.  In 496 A.D., Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th a feast day to celebrate Saint Valentine. 

Today, you'll probably show your spouse, kids, and Mom some love by giving them cards, chocolates, and flowers.

But don’t forget yourself! 

By showing yourself some love by investing for retirement, you’re actually showing your kids some love, too, in the long run.  When you age, you’ll be in a good financial position and won’t have to rely on them for monetary support. And you may even have enough to leave a little inheritance for them.

For example, contributing $400 a month to your retirement account will add up to $302,500 in 10 years at a 7% average annual return (not accounting for taxes and inflation).  Increase that to $500 each month, and your balance will equal $378,200.  You’ll be contributing $12,000 more each year for 10 years, but your balance will be nearly $76,000 higher.

If the complexities of investing get you down, or if you're frustrated that you don't seem to be getting ahead financially, don't get mad. Instead, get invested in your financial future by reading my book, Don't Get Mad . . . Get Inve$ted. By learning the fundamentals of investing, you can lay the groundwork for a secure and prosperous future and a comfortable retirement. And you'll be showing yourself and your kids some love.

When you spread the love this Valentine’s Day, spread it to yourself, too.  Increase your monthly investment contributions by a few bucks.  Every little bit adds up.