Share your experiences or thoughts

[HF63]

The closer I get to finally hanging out the work boots, the more I ponder about the notion of investing on the stock market. In my short term experience, this crazy market has gone through the 93 problems, 97 emerging market crises, 2000 internet bubble, and the latest fiasco created by white people with blue eyes according to Lula (president of Brazil). I had originally intended on getting closer to a balance (50/50) approach on my asset allocation but the more I ponder or wonder. It scares the pants out of me after looking at the latest results from Wellesley and Wellington funds. I can't afford to take anything greater than a 10% percent hair cut during retirement. It is most likely that I will probably have only 20-25% stocks, but if I can get a 6-7% CD that will probably change to 10% or less. I don’t want the market to dictate or spoil my future plans (you only live once).
Some thoughts:
The market is not your friend, should avoid if possible, invest/ gamble the money that you do not need, etc.

What other lessons have you learned

Speedy