Q. "Panic" is the defining word for what's happening in today's world. Because information and decisions are made almost simultaneously, do we know what is really going on? What are we to do?

A. You are right on the money. Historically, the gatekeepers of information were those who held power, such as kings and the clergy, who were among the learned few who could read and write.

In time, literacy reached the masses. Soon after, resources such as books and newspapers arrived. They were followed by newsmagazines, radio and television. More recently, the Internet and websites arose.

Each information source has its own point of view, requires advertising or volunteer funding, has its own agenda and the capability to deliver its opinion to growing numbers of subscribers, listeners, viewers, and website visitors.

As the receivers of these messages, we recognize the gatekeepers' power to influence our decisions. Given time, we can sort through competing messages and find the truth.

Unfortunately, in the race to be "first" with the news, source mistakes, intentional lies, and other inaccuracies find their way into the messages we receive. As a result, it is understandable that we are becoming ever more skeptical.

As the late Sen. Pat Moynihan, D-N.Y., accurately expressed: "Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but not their own facts." Be alert, patient, cautious, and don't rush to judgment based on a single source or opinion!

Q: Because of the dicey outlook for the economy and limited opportunity for increasing our income, we believe we are in a leaking bucket. We hear talk about changes to come, and other "possibilities," but have little faith in their being accomplished. If we continue our personal spending rate, we are afraid we will outlive our assets. Are there options and possible solutions?

A. We are all at risk. Things do change, and hopefully they will change to our advantage. While gasoline prices are down and the dollar is firming somewhat, commodity prices are going up and down like a yo-yo. Never in most of our lifetimes has it been more important than it is today to stay focused and have a goal.

First, revisit and revisit again your budget and lifestyle. This is not the time to relax, convinced that there is nothing you can do about current conditions. As Dad frequently said, "The chickens are coming home to roost."

Sit down and redefine the differences between your needs and wants. Put yourself on credit alert! Write down every cent you spend each month. The result will show how much you dribble away. Let common sense prevail.

Second, pay attention to your credit card balances. Often, due to boredom, loneliness, unhappiness or feeling a need to reward ourselves, we pop out our card for something without thinking of the payback. Credit card fees have not dropped much, if any. It might be a good time to consider canceling your cards or locking them in a drawer for a few months. Total last year's fee and interest charges. You might be shocked.

Third, if you have not held a money conference with the family, including your grandchildren, it is time to do so. This holiday season, retailers are offering "tremendous bargains." Playing Monopoly with the grandkids could help them to learn how money works. Money should not be the key to love and affection. There is a special meaning in a visit, a phone call, a bouquet, and a card. Those are expressions of your caring!

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life after work in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at deardoug@msn.com. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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