There has been for some time a disconnect between the financial markets and the real economy which they are suppose to reflect.

An infinite amount of resource and focus is given, from the grassroots level on up, to being aware of the necessity to conserve -- not waste or destroy -- our natural resources. It is a small step, not a great leap, to apply the same established principles of conservation to our financial resources that are equally necessary to support and keep us in step with the unalterable stages of life.

Consider the following:

- The financial crisis has greatly underscored the fact that economic and market forecasts are not reliable. What planning principles that are based on accommodating change can the individual look to that will compensate for this shortfall in reliability?

- How many times is it desirable or feasible in the span of a normal lifetime to rebuild life-accumulated core financial assets once you have experienced sizable losses during volatile periods in the financial markets? And how does age factor into this picture?

- What is a comprehensive alternative that will eliminate direct exposure to the uncertainties of the financial markets and provide for the safe and secure growth of the core financial assets that you depend on for such things as making a down payment on a home, paying for future college tuition or maintaining your lifestyle in retirement?