Let Go and Let God

July 28, 2026

A dear friend reminded me of this helpful slogan when we walked yesterday. I was telling her how overwhelmed I felt about financial changes due to my retirement and all the many unknowns that were racing through my mind. My new insurance is starting on August first. As of yesterday morning, I had not gotten my new card, even though I completed the paperwork to start the insurance in May. I also filed for the Virginia Retirement System to start distributing my pension. That paperwork was submitted in March. Also as of yesterday morning, I had yet to receive a letter from VRS telling me the amount of my monthly check. I was stressing about a small outstanding balance on a credit card for an emergency purchase last month. Kindly, the same friend stopped me, gave me a big hug and reminded me that it would all work out. She suggested I pay the bill (the only thing I could control) and then go about my day.

The truth of the matter is that money is a trigger issue for me. I felt out of control and fearful, despite assurances from my financial planner that I am well prepared for retirement. I saved monthly for over 30 years. I worked at a rare job with a guaranteed pension. My house is paid for, and we have an emergency fund. Yes, my finances will be different in retirement, but there is no chance I will be destitute. It was never my goal to be more than comfortably middle class and that will be my status in retirement.

Fear is a powerful and irrational thing. It took Susan’s kind words to bring me back to reality. Suddenly, I could see the beauty of the campus at University of Richmond in its full summer glory with lush green trees, lawns and flowers bursting with energy and color after recent rains. I had almost missed the Carolina blue sky reflected in the lake as we walked around it, the birds singing and the fresh scent of newly mown grass.

Over lunch, I talked to another friend. She and I made tentative plans for future travel and caught up about our kids. Ellen was happy for me that I had found some engaging things to do in retirement. She also assured me that things will work out. I came home to prepare for my afternoon volunteer job, feeling grateful for friendships and activities that fulfill me. Taking Susan’s suggestion, I paid off the worrisome credit card.

Moments later, the mail arrived as I was gathering my bags to tutor. In it was the new insurance card and a letter from VRS explaining the details of  my distribution and answering my lingering questions. Now I have the needed information to create a budget, and I will be able to keep medical appointments previously scheduled.

Years ago, I read a book by Florence Scovel Shinn in which she talked about “digging your ditches.” She encouraged her readers to do something to demonstrate that you believe things will work out and then to sit back and watch as they do.

Yep. My friends were right yesterday. I just needed to let go and let God.