The Old and the New....Me That Is.

Back in 1985 when I was diagnosed HIV+ I thought of it as a death sentence. Back then it pretty much was. So I decided then and there that there was absolutely no reason to save any money for my old age. It was also just the excuse I needed to go ahead and drink and drug myself to oblivion. After all, I was going to die really soon. Well, 20 years later, I'm still here and sober, no less. Today I got my usual SS check and for the first time a full paycheck from my new job. I normally spend every cent I have usually in one or two days. This morning I went to get the car inspected and they were too busy to take me unless I was willing to wait for 45 minutes. I said I'd be back and took off to the grocery store. As I got out of the car I just stopped moving and stood there. Then I got back in the car and came home thinking that the old me would have paid for whatever the garage said I needed. Instead I'm going to have a friend look it over before I take it to the garage to be inspected. Then I'll go in armed and prepared for their opinion. I have money in the bank and for the first time ever, I WANT TO KEEP IT THERE. Now that's unusual. So I know it will get spent no matter what I do but at least I'll try to keep it there as long as possible. In a few months, after a few paychecks things will level out and and I'll feel better about everything. I hope.