As I sit here and contemplate my financial future and watch the stock market continue to fall (down 746.61 at the time of writing this) I can only think of a comment made on 60 MINUTES by an economist who said, "Bernacke and Greenspan have done a great job containing this economic situation to planet Earth."  Today after checking the markets world wide and seeing the same sell off everywhere, I at 8am I had a pretty good idea what was going to happen today!  I understand that the European markets have already started implementing there own versions of our "bailout" and almost all are Federally insuring individuals bank accounts up to certain amounts.  As the credit crunch increases and prices of most stocks and commodities continues to fall (except for gold which is going through the roof), OPEC is now considering reducing oil production to stabilize its market.  Typically I would understand this move but I was really hoping for a decrease in oil prices, which would have helped many Americans in the coming winter and now by allowing gas prices to continue to fall.  However, it is a dog eat dog world out there and I shouldn't be surprised by this move.  I understand the Fed is brokering the Wachovia deal between CitiGroup and Wells Fargo which probably means nothing will get done as the Fed wants the two companies to split up Wachovia, doubtful, but maybe I'm wrong.  It certainly is a tumultuous time and I have been saddened to watch the dramatic effects on peoples 401Ks and I hope everyone understands the ramifications of these tremendous losses particularly on our older generations.  Many who had or were near the age of retirement no longer will be able to afford to do so.  I think of my own parents hope they get the chance to enjoy their golden years like their parents before them, but recently I am beginning to wonder.  I can only imagine how they feel!  Good luck out there and remember if you invest wisely and don't over extend your means you'll survive!