Anyone see Scott Burns column yesterday ?

[wabmester]

Although I might have pulled it off anyway, it is very difficult for me to see how I could have retired
without these components.  

My sentiments exactly. I'd still be working if I only had stocks and bonds as retirement assets. I absolutely hate the transaction costs and carrying costs associated with real estate, but it certainly has helped offset my stock market stupidity.

And there is no end to the potential risks and misery associated with owning a business, but if you can find something you love to do, have positive cashflow, and build equity, there's nothing that comes close.

I'm sure I'll always invest in stocks. They seem to go up long-term even without me understanding why, but I feel that I need more control and understanding when it comes to living without a salary.