If I Was In Charge of Our Pension Plan

I have a small pension through the Pension Plan of the church of God, Anderson, Indiana. The people of Central Community have done their best over the years to give to it as the church was able. Debi and I don't have any plans for retiring... but I've learned from my friends that age and retirement comes upon us whether we plan for it or not... so we're thankful.

Our retirement is in the "aggressive" portion of the portfollio... just couldn't stand to be anything less than aggressive :-) It's cost me big time. Out about 30% or more of our investment in the last month alone. That's nothing compared to lost equity in the house! I've always struggled with the church participating in general mutual funds... the folks at the pension board have heard... or at least listened to my complaints as pastor's pensions were invested in tobacco, alcohol and abortion funds... that doesn't even begin to mention the military/industrial complex. There are plenty of really good socially and morally motivated and directed mutual funds- we're not serious participants and they haven't been broadcasted.

Sad.

But that's just one guys opinion. Industry needs investment and if the church feels good sharing a bed with these guys... more power to them.

If I was in charge of our pension plan? This week I'd invest everything in Ford and General Motors. Not just because they're trading at all time lows. Definitely not because I'm a huge supporter of the auto/oil industry or that I even drive a Ford or GM vehicle, though I have owned both. I'd do it now because I believe in the American worker. These two company's employ almost 400,000 US workers between them and countless other industries around the world depend on them. If I'm going to lose my retirement... and I get to choose- call me old fashioned, but I choose going out with working men and women.

The people leading our auto industry haven't always led the pack... but I believe the right people will rise to the top and the best decisions will be made. Lord only knows what GM and Ford may be producing a century from today- rapid transit?, smog free, oil free vehicles...? jet packs?! You go George Jetson! Wouldn't it be fun to be a participant in a worker based industry that keeps the world moving?

Just my morning thoughts on todays economy. Hope your retirement- more importantly, your eternity, is safe and in His Hands today. To all of you who served: Thanks So Much. Think of you all often as I visit Mom's grave at Riverside National Cemetary. Happy Veteran's Day.

many blessings,

Eric