INPUT ARTICLE: Article: If you or the other person tries to let something go and it continues to eat at either of you, then you likely need to process residual feelings. This may include talking with the person, reiterating your desires to rebuild trust, and assuring her that you will do what ever it takes to make things better. It can be upsetting if someone tells you to, “just let it go” if you haven’t reached a level of resolve about the matter. Take a deep breath and say, “I’m working on letting it go, but I’m not there yet.” As time passes and progress if made, you may notice the other person holds the issue over your head. She brings up the betrayal in an argument or discussion. Perhaps she isn’t over the hurt and still has work to do to forgive you.  Calmly bring it up and say, “It sounds like you are not fully ready to forgive me. I think we both have worked really hard to get where we are. What else can I do to help you get to a point where you don’t have to bring this up? If more apologies will help, I’m ready to do that. If you think I don’t understand the depth of the hurt that I did to you, then help me out and tell me. I’ll do whatever it takes because when you bring it up it makes me believe that you’re still hurt, and I don’t want that.” If you refuse to hold a grudge against her for her reactions, it will help you remain open for positive improvements.  Remember, you would appreciate the same respect. Celebrating the smallest of improvements will breathe life back into the situation. Everyone benefits from recognition for a job well done. If she begrudges the idea, tell her you are celebrating because you both committed to work together through the journey and that alone deserves a celebration. Whether you have to sever ties for yourself, or if someone severs ties with you, there’s no reason why two parties should continue to betray each other. If you continually find yourself in the same cycle of betrayal-forgive-rebuild-betrayal, it is time to stop the madness. Don’t waste your time or someone else’s. Life is short so surround yourself with people who bring you joy and satisfaction. Trickery and betrayal are not virtues anyone will admire. Accepting the truth can be the first step toward real change. It’s up to you to create the fulfilling life that you've always wanted. It is possible. Be self-reliant. Happiness is an inside job and you are responsible to create it. It is easier to face difficult situations if you are filled with good vibes. A happier you will always make any relationship better.  You know what makes you happy, so participate in activities that will build a reservoir of positive feelings. For example, if you love the way live music makes you feel then attend concerts at small clubs and large venues. Listen to new music to expand your knowledge. If you love being outdoors, join a hiking group in your local area. Communing with nature is restorative.

SUMMARY: Let go of the past. Do not hold grudges. Acknowledge commitment and improvement. Cut off repeat offenders. Be responsible for your own happiness.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: There are several different types of mutual funds available, each of which has a different level of risk. Even if you are a relatively conservative investor, you still may want to add one or two higher-risk funds.  A diversified basket of mutual funds that meets your overall preferred level of risk allows your portfolio to experience some growth rather than merely preserving your capital. Within your overall investment account, you want to reserve at least 5 percent of your assets in cash so you can take advantage of opportunities as they arise. Money market funds generally have the lowest risk level. Stock funds and bond funds are generally higher risk funds. Target date funds carry a mix of investments and are best if you have a specific retirement date in mind. Before you start buying shares in mutual funds, you need a good understanding of the types of funds available, the possible returns associated with those funds, and the expenses involved.   You can learn a lot about mutual funds by reading on the internet, especially at the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which regulates mutual funds. You also can download a complete consumer guide to mutual funds at https://investor.gov, which will walk you through all the details of the market generally and provide guidance on investing wisely. Online ratings services, such as Lipper or Morningstar, offer risk assessments for each mutual fund. Compare these to the risk tolerance you've established to decide which mutual fund is right for you.  These services also detail all fees and charges related to each mutual fund. These expenses can eat into your returns significantly, so you need to research each fund carefully before you commit any money. Look beyond the name of a fund. Just because a fund carries the name of a particular bank may not mean that bank still runs that fund. A fund called a "stock fund" may carry other investments besides corporate stock. While investing in an actively-managed fund will give you more flexibility, you likely will pay higher fees to an investment manager. Passive investment in index-based funds may be a better option for you if you are new to investing. Index-based funds typically have lower fees than actively-managed funds, but they also run the risk of underperforming once you take fees and taxes into account. Generally, investing in mutual funds will be more satisfying if you plan to hold your shares for five years or longer. The longer you hold your shares, the better your chance of a decent investment return. Some funds offer several different share classes, typically A, B, and C classes. Each class has a different fee structure. The length of time you plan to hold your shares can help you determine which share class is most appropriate for you.

SUMMARY:
Determine your risk tolerance. Research the market. Visit financial websites. Choose an active or passive investment strategy. Decide how long you plan to hold your investments.