Sunday, June 20, 2004

Scalzi's Weekend Assignment #10 - Money!

    

Weekend Assignment #10: Congratulations! You've been given one million dollars. What would you do with it? But wait! There's more -- seems you've been given two million dollars. Would you do anything different with the second million than you would with the first?

For the purposes of this assignment, assume that you've got two million after taxes -- so you don't have to worry about Uncle Sam and your state and local governments dipping into your pot of cash. Also, you've got it all at once -- no installment plans.

(Extra Credit: If you had two million not to keep but to donate to a charity, which charity and why?)

I'm not much of a dreamer.  As such, I don't have fantasies of winning millions. I don't spend my time considering the "What Ifs" should I win.  After all, I don't play the lottery and I don't gamble. My practical mind tells me it is useless. In both instances, the odds are against you. Do you know that you have more of a chance of having a heart attack while waiting in line to buy a lottery ticket than you do in winning the lottery? In addition, gambling is set up so that the house wins. Sure there are those big winners but for one of my Statistics classes we did the calculations. Even with those big winners, the house makes something like twenty-five cents for every dollar spent in a casino, of course that depends upon the game played. It may be higher for others. I believe we were analyzing the game of Roulette, if memory serves me well. With that said, I still thought it would be fun to dream a little dream and consider what I would do with the money.

With the first million, I would buy a home. The going rate for a decent house in Los Angeles is approximately $500,000. That's for a decent house, nothing extraordinary. It would be nice if it had a pool and a couple of bedrooms because I would love to make one of the rooms into a library. And, I'd like to become a foster parent and/or adopt a child, or two, of my own. I would take another $350,000 dollars and disperse it to my family and friends. I even made a list of twenty names. The adults would receive 10K and the children would receive 25K in a trust to be used as they see fit, but hopefully for some kind of continuing education. I would take $70,000 and pay off my bills, buy a new car and furnishings for my house. That would leave me $80,000 which I would invest, being sure to diversify my investments.

If I were given an additional million, would I spend it differently? Not really, I would invest the additional monies too. I am behind the eight ball on saving for my retirement. I really don't intend on ever retiring. I enjoy working but sometimes life forces you to slow down. As such, it would be nice to have a nest egg to fall back on.

Now, for the two million that I would give to charity: Before I went to CSUN, I was volunteering as a tutor for the San Fernando Valley Literacy council. I think helping someone achieve a working literacy is probably one of the most rewarding volunteer efforts a person can partake. It goes along with the saying, "Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime." Most of the people who are students in a literacy program are there because they want to be. They want to learn and better themselves. In California alone, 11% of the population over the age of 16 read below the 9th grade level. It might not sound like that much but it equates to over 2 million people. I find that atrocious when we have a public school system that is supposed to be free to attend.

In addition, I would like to set up a school  for homeless children here in Los Angeles like the one Screminremo mentions in his Weekend Assignment entry. Once again, it's a "Teach to Fish" type of charity and would probably also help to decrease those who are falling through the cracks. They go to the children and bring them to school each day, whether they are at shelters or temporary housing. They feed them, they have a food pantry, clothing, and even a gift room for birthdays. They try to give these homeless children all that they are missing by living on the streets.

The pictures above are of a piggy bank that I have that my mom gave me. I figured I'd follow the theme that John did by taking a picture of my own piggy bank. That's the pig I mentioned in a previous entry that I call my "Greece Can." I was setting aside my change for a trip to Greece. I emptied it when 9/11 occurred and used the money for something else. I've decided to start saving again with the hope that by the time it's full, I'll feel comfortable again with traveling to that region of the world.

131 comments:

Anonymous said...

sooooo.....you'd keep your two million dollars in this pig???  ;P

teehee.    Phinney

Anonymous said...

Very sound & sensible financial planning, which it would have to be with two million dollars.  That's what I first thought when I read Scalzi's assignment.. "ONLY two million?"  Hey, let's face it, that wouldn't go very far these days.
I admit your charity idea, but I'm wondering if we haven't already lost the battle on literacy.  TV is simply too overwhelming and people don't bother to read anymore.  I don't see that situation improving either.  ¤Holly

Anonymous said...

That is one great "PB" from your Mom! Your charity thoughts are worthy.
I help with "Loaves and Fishes" a similar type charity as "Teach to Fish"...
Hope you make it to Greece, my friend was there this Christmas past-
"Eating Cornflakes in Greece" an older entry in December on my journal...
Peace and blessings...  _Rose

Anonymous said...

This piggy bank brought back memories. A boy drew my name in school at Christmas and he gave me a piggy bank similar to that one. I still have it with money in it from years ago. It could have a valuable penny in it. It is a lot of trouble to try to get anything out of it as it doesn't have an opening in the bottom. Paula

Anonymous said...

Your Greece Can is a great idea. Thanks for the mention of TJPappas. Between reading my entries and that cheesy diploma, you are really turning out to be something. :>

Anonymous said...

It's funny how Californians answered the question of what they would do with a million dollars.  "Buy a house.  Nothing special, just a house."  The rest  of us, I'm sure, have a hard time comprehending the fact that a "decent" house could cost most of a million dollars.  I could buy  decent houses in Portland for that money!  Lisa  :-]  

Anonymous said...

Beautiful Graphic!
Houses in Ca., Wow!
V

Anonymous said...

What a great weekend assignment entry!  Like you, I don't play the lottery.  I'd rather put my dollar in a savings account - eventually, all those dollars would add up to some REAL riches.  LOL  I feel sorry for people who put $20 or more a week into the hope of winning.  Anyway.. I think you have some great ideas for spending your dream loot.

And I really hope you start saving again for your trip to Greece.  If you want to speak statistics and odds, the odds of anything happening to you during a vacation in Greece are probably pretty low.  So don't let those fears keep you from experiencing life.  

Anonymous said...

I love your entry on this. I read several and I like your spending plans the best so far:) I didn't even contemplate the question cuz I, like you, don't play the lottery so I wouln't have to figure out how to spend what is left after taxes.

Anonymous said...

Love the piggy...I have a empty gatorade bottle.  I love all your ideas for your millions.  I wish we could all win just a little.  We'd be happy, then, wouldn't we???

Anonymous said...

You are a lady with her priorities straight. The praise you gave my journal means so much more knowing that it comes from someone like you--caring, altruistic, idealistic. I was from the original hippie generation...I look around at my contemporaries now and wonder where their ideals have gone. Keep the faith. Paul

Anonymous said...

 Does anybody, thought of spending it in a unforgettable dreaming vacation in an exotic island. I did.

Anonymous said...

I like the way you think.  I'm especially thrilled to see you contemplating fosterparenting or adopting.  As a child of adoption I know that the love and generosity of the men & women who so freely open their hearts to children not biologically their own knows no bounds, and with fortune reaps infinite love & gratitude in return.

And I'm glad you're reinstating the 'Greece' can.  Go...travel...be happy.  You deserve it.   :)

Anonymous said...

You're very attractive, Robbie..

Anonymous said...

Hey Robbie, We (my hubby and I) often think about winning the lottery.. of course you have to play to win!!! We occasionally play. We have thought about what we would do. We would first pay off our mortage, and pay off my parents bills, Pay off our sisters bills. We would then give our house to one of our close friends who needed it. We would then buy us a couple of houses, one in the mountains for my hubby who loves the mountains, and one at the beach for me. I would set up an account for each of my kids for education and a house fund. I would also give to our church and to a charity or two.

Anonymous said...

I would pit half the money in a tax free investment with help from a investment banker! Then i would pay off what little bills i have and there are not many. I would then make sure my mother had enough money to get through her last years! I would treat myself to a new truck and put the rest in savings for a rainy day!  SgtMaj 1027

Anonymous said...

Boy is this a loaded question! I am a single parent & presently out of a job~~with the first million I would definitely buy a house, pay off my bills ..& get some life insurance! I pretty sure i wouldnt need to have anything extravagant ... I just want enough to live without all this stress.
The second million i would donate to homeless families, but since i am not exactly the "stay at home type" I think i would want to get involved or create an organization that would insure that all the money i had given would actually GO TO THESE FAMILIES! It is not my desire to have people live in any extraordinary way --but i think i would like to allow some people to just LIVE!

Anonymous said...

Put 10% to the side for your self, then pay off debts all of them.  Invest the rest in real estate, land, while donating to charites of your choice.  That's what I would do.  You can live off you interest.

Anonymous said...

pay off some debt, give to charity, buy some franchises, then i would treat myself still haveing some sort of income while vactioning instead of all outcome, which would be the set up for the future never have to be late, laid off, or fired again, freedom freedom

Anonymous said...

Even though I'll have a million dollars I would still use it to finish paying for my education.  I would also ensure that my son would have money for college as well.  An education is a very important thing to get no matter how much money you have and no matter how old you are.  I would also use the money to pay off bills and buy a house and car.  I would also invest the money and once I have graduated from college I would start a business where I could work from home and become a foster mother.  There are tons of children out there that need to be loved and I have tons of love to give 'em.  I would also donate some money to the Children's Home Society in my area, start a scholarship with the a youth symphony that I played in as a teenager, a scholarship with a music camp that I attended because of a scholarship, and a scholarship at my future university.

Anonymous said...

If I had two million dollars I would take all of my family and friends and do something wonderful together that we could all share and remember because life is so short and you always lose someone you love along the way. You always have too many "I WISHED WE WOULD HAVE'S."  I would make sure that everyone had a home, food and could survive if I weren't there to help them.  I would make sure that everyone of them knew without a doubt how much I love them and that they are special people with gifts they need to give away to others.  "THEMSELVES."  I really believe the greatest gift you can give to someone else is not money, but love.  The one selfish thing I would do is go play Sawgrass golf course.    

Anonymous said...

I don't need 2 million, all I want is $250,000.00 to be able to buy my family a small home which they deserve and I have not been able to give to them.

Anonymous said...

I have thought of what I would do with it. I would tithe 10 percent to my church.  Then I would pay my bills. By a house, and  a new car. Then I would by my parents their dream home.  My sister a house. And my family give them money to do what they need.
After that I would invest in the children of our future.  I would build a juvenile deliquency center that wasn't like a jail.  I would house a school, where they could learn with a equal education.  Have the ability to play sports and learn how to cope with others and the skills to live outside the system.  
I would also like to buy some fixer upper houses, and turn them into habitat for humanity houses for women who have been victims of domestic violence.
If i was to choose a charity to donate it all to it would be the domestic violence charities.  

Anonymous said...

With a two million windfall, I would take some time off from my job to help my wife get through her stage three ovarian cancer.  Her chemotherapy starts next week and she'll need the support of a husband who loves her dearly.  Futhermore, I would let her retire from her twenty plus years of teaching elementary school.
Having wanting to see the Grand Canyon and the Pacific Coast of the United States, I would see that her wish was granted!

Anonymous said...

If I came into two million dollars, I would first take a trip with my family, come back buy a house and then think how or seek financial help invest some of the money.  I want to help myself as well as family members out of situations they are in.  My desires are just sweet and simple.  I truly love seeing other people happy and the look on their faces.  The charity that I would give the two millions to is to New Phoenix Assistance Center, which is a center that provides housing to HIV+ women and children, homeless and pregnant and parenting teens.  This agency helps individuals move from a nothing stage in their lives to self-sufficiency, owning their home to the sky is unlimited.  Please do not by no means think that I will not go on a spending spree.

johnsonmyboys

Anonymous said...

id buy a star. a nice bright one. id rename the strongest hurrican after myself because rain is amazing. i'd rent a skywriter and write this ones for you nikki, right above the sunset. i'd turn back time, so me and hannah could sit and watch the sunset over and over again. i'd buy a car and some rope so i could kidnap jared. he owes me a sunrise.

then id crash the mall and the toy store and buy random things. id rent a room and fill it with pillows just because that'd be fun. i'd throw a party and have the early november play, and id hire someone to teach me how to skateboard.

Anonymous said...

first of all i would get the hell out of califonia, 500,000 for a half way decent house? thats crazy. i would buy about 100 acres of land in west virginia, for about $1,500.00 an acre, and use it for a nature reserve and observitory. next i would buy a house and pay all my bills.... i have a good car so i dont need that, then i would begin a private charity to help under privliged people get an education, so they could get out of the slums and be proud to be able take care of thier families. the church would also get some for the good work that they do.

Anonymous said...

What I would do with two million dollars? First of all I would split one millon to various charities like the homeless shelters and center for abused women , and children and some for churches. The other million I would split with my sister and her two sons.

Anonymous said...

I would pay all my bills.  The first purchase I would make is to buy a home for my wife and three kids; I have not been able to give them this.  Of corse I would buy myself my dream car.  Other than that, I would invest the rest and take myself back to school.  I've always dreamed of having a sucuessful career.  Having to work full time and working different shifts to avoid child care has not enabled me to do this.  Life can be hard for a 26 yr old guy with three kids and no education, other than a high school diploma.  2 Million would make my life a whole lot better!

Anonymous said...

Well, 2 mill. sure seems like a lot of money ! First I'd pay off all my debt, and all my parents, brother, & brothers in laws debts. I would put my mother in law ( who just broke her hip ) in a place where she would be happy & get the best care for her that she needed. Then 20 % would go to my church, because they truely know who the needy are in this area. I would then go to my local fire & police department, see what equipment that they need to either update, or replace, and then donate that money towards their need. I know that they operate on our taxes, but they are limited also on what they can do, and these are the folks that protect us on a daily basis !! Then, if there is anything left, purchase a vacation home on a lake somewhere so that my immediate & extended family would have some place to go to. Oh and hopefully my wife could quit her job, and I wouldn't have to work 2 jobs anymore .trying to make ends meet ! Anything else left over would be invested for the future.  

Anonymous said...

I would run away from home.

Anonymous said...

Hmm, two million dollars, eh?  Of course, first on almost everyone's agenda, I'd buy a nice house for my love and I.  A pretty one goes for maybe 250,000 here, and you get about two acres, and I'll make sure there's a pool.  Then I'd give my parents enough money to pay off their bills and buy a new home (as they get old, I'll think they'll find they aren't too fond of having a house with so many stairs).  I'd pay for my college education, at least what scholarships don't pay for.  And for Brian's too, as he really wants to go back to school.  I'd like to have a really nice wedding, which, as it were, my father would never pay for, because with the divorce rate being so high, he finds it superfluous.  I'd buy two nice cars, a completely fixed up 67 or 68 Camaro RS SS.  As you may be able to tell, I have no idea what that is, but Brian loves it.  And I'd want a redone Corvette, but the year of my favorite model escapes me just now, or a new Lincoln Aviator.  I'd put some in a cash deposit, since you get incredible interest on those things if you put in enough money, and invest the rest.

Anonymous said...

I WOULD ACTUALLY BY THE PUBLIC HOUSING HOUSE I LIVE IN.  EXPAND/REMODEL IT THE WAY I WANT AND LIVE HAPPY FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE.  I LIVE IN A SINGLE FAMILY HOME PRIVATE DRIVEWAY.  VERY BIG FENCED IN YARD.  I WOULD ALSO PAY OFF SCHOOL LOANS, FOR MYSELF AND MY CHILDREN, HOUSEHOLD BILLS, CLEAN UP MY CREDIT REPORT.

WHAT I WANT IS NOT MUCH BUT  FOR MY SISTER AND HER FAMILY i WOULD BUY HER A HOUSE TO GET HER OUT OF PHILADELPHIA.  PAY HER BILLS AND MAKE OUR LIVES PLEASENT.

MY GRANDDAUGHTER I WOULD SET HER UP FOR COLLEGE AND A TRUST FUND.


THERES A CHURCH NEAR BY THAT HAS PURCHASED AN EMPTY LOT TO BUILD A FAMILY CENTER.  I WOULD ACTUALLY DONATE MONEY TO SEE IT BUILT TO GET THE CHILDREN OFF THE STREET.
THE REST I WOULD BANK TO LIVE ON

Anonymous said...

Ah, one other thing.  I'd also like a lovey trip to Italy, Greece, Australia, Fiji, and Finland for me and my dearest.

Anonymous said...

After watching Bowling for Columbine, I would head to Flint Michigan to see if I could clean up the area a little, add some nice landscaping, new street signs, new computers and supplies for the schools, and try to build a new stadium. I would go public to raise money to fix the homes and buildings, asking General Motors to contribute a couple million.

With the other million, I would take a vacation, pay off bills, pay off my moms bills, buy a car, buy my mom a car, buy a small house and invest the rest.

Anonymous said...

I like her plan. I would re-open the school my mother helped start that closed after 35 years due to arrears of only $40,000 but I would call it the Gloria Bradshaw Davis Episcopal School.

Anonymous said...

You know, your question is a heck of a question. It provoked thousand of different ideas. That I could do with that kind of money. But I am just a simple man. My wants are few. But if I had two millions. I would just start Living.
Adam  (DevilishCowboy84@aol.com)

Anonymous said...

You know, your question is a heck of a question. It provoked thousand of different ideas. That I could do with that kind of money. But I am just a simple man. My wants are few. But if I had two millions. I would just start Living.
Adam  (DevilishCowboy84@aol.com)

Anonymous said...

pay bill after that i Don,t Know

Anonymous said...

I beleive that I would take several months to travel this beautiful country. I would do so frugaly via camping, so that I could enjoy every moment. I would not spend a lot of money on a home, just something very basic. I would set up trust funds to be used for educational purposes for my grandchildren. I would then involve my sons in seeking both investment opurtunities and charities in which to disperse the rest of the money. I was always taught that you should try and leave this world a better place than it was when you arrived (thank you daddy), so I am sure that half of the money would go to charities that make a difference.

Anonymous said...

THIS IS YOUR DREAM, ONLY YOU CAN BE SATIFIED WITH IT. SO DREAM BIG FOR IT IS FOR THE KIDS. IT IS NICE TO HAVE A GIVING HEART FOR THE PEOPLE THAT COULD REALY USE YOUR HELP.BUT DONT FORGET YOUR SELF AND YOUR FAMILY. SO HAVE THAT BIG DREAM AND MAKE YOURSELVE FEEL GOOD.        MYSTICALWILDWOLF@AOL.COM

Anonymous said...

Wow, those are some great ideas.. Hmm.. If I won two million dollars.. I'd buy some Nintindo games I've had my eye on, maybe buy the other companies' sytems, and some games I've been wishing were for Gamecube, then pay off my parent's car bills. Hmm.. Then, I'd buy presents for all my friends, nothing too extravagent, just stuff a kid without a job can't afford. I'd take my brother "dream computer shopping" and then buy it for him.. I'd give some to our church. I think, after all that, I'd put the rest into some type of bank thing, to earn interest until I'm mentally and emotionally mature enough to spend and invest it wisely..

Sherri

Anonymous said...

I would buy a house, car, and pay off bills. I would then take a month long trip and think about what to do with the rest of my money. Investment sure. Peace and tranquility definitely. Existing, nothing but existing.......
Tony C.

Anonymous said...

I WOULD GIVE SO MUCH TO OUR CHILDREN FOR RAISING CHILDREN IS MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE THEN WHEN I RAISED MY KIDS. THEN MY HUSBAND AND I COULD SEE THE GOOD OLD USA ,WITH THE REST OF IT, PLACES I HAVE NEVER SEEN AND IM 69 YEARS OLD

Anonymous said...

I would buy a two bedroom co-op in New York City on the highest floor I could get with a view of the Queensborough Bridge, the East River and some of the tall skyscrapers - it would wrap around the eastern and southern exposures.  Then, I would not have much remaining - maybe $100,000.

Anonymous said...

This is simple question...Put the money in a bank, which offers descent interest and live off the interest. You'll never spend your two million and if you have money left over each year, put it back into your millions savings. It will grow more and more till you have millions of dollars, that will pay even more interest, so you'll have more money to spend each year and more to reinvest.

Anonymous said...

I would pay off my mortgage and other debts.  I would help out a few friends who are homeless.  I would donate a large portion ($500,000) to the Best friends animal sanctuary and then take a month long vacation in Kapalua Maui.

Anonymous said...

Well it is scary to say but 2 million these days is not enough to set you free for life, you really have to watch what you do with it. I would buy a house, in Los Angeles...that cost is at least 800,000. Then I would divide the other 200,000 amongst my friends and family. The other million...well I would invest $500,000 and not touch it and then have a business manager put me on a fixed income with the other 500,000 so that i could still live comfotably but not go through all the money. I would still work because I am a writer now and love what I do...but the stress of making my mortgage would be gone and I could actually focus on just trying to do what I love in this life...which is the goal for many. Oh and I would take a few great travel trips.

Anonymous said...

If I had two million dollars I would do the following in order of priority:  Pay all my debts, pay all of my family debts (mother, sisters, brother), buy a house, donate  ten percent to charity, invest twenty percent, and use the rest for personal use.

Anonymous said...

i would first buy a house and a new car, then i would set up trust funds for my children and step children, then i would start a bussiness, the charity i would gine to, mostlikley 500,000 is the childrens foundation . i would make sure my children who are disabled had a chance  of a good education for a great life and they wouldent get there trust fund untill i feel they are mature enough to use it wisley

Anonymous said...

i would make sure my family is straight, because after all family should come first. then i would build my own house and start my own business.

Anonymous said...

WoW!!! My idea's are based upon what I do not have in my life and feel important about. First pay off my bills and make my final arrangements. Put 200,000 dollars each into an account for my daughter and my son. That would be a nice nest egg to leave them...then if they want to buy a house they can. I would then have a house built that I designed, I would pay it off immediately. No one could take it from me!!! I would furnish it with food...lots of food, I would never be hungry or homeless again. I would pay off my parents home so they could finally relax...due to their health costs my father at 83 still does sidework to cover health bills. I would give monies to my ex in laws, godchildren and my niece and nephew. I would then put the rest in the bank, for about a year.Then I could enjoy my home and the security it has given to me and I have given to my family and loved ones. After a year I would decide how best to help homeless, hungry people.
Morgan

Anonymous said...

i would go to amsterdam and party my ass off

Anonymous said...

if i had a million dollars, i would do two chicks at the same time

Anonymous said...

...although it is great to be practical it is divine to fulfill a dream...if my dream were to go to greece i would move there for a year and help children in their community learn english...as i would try to adopt or foster and take a child there for the beauty in giving to a community...(i would also make certain that my family was taken care of...possibly paying off their debts and their house payments for a year...as far as the children i would just get a very large life insurance policy with them as the beneficiaries and put most of the remaining in a high return cd...these are safe and practical(unless of course one of your relatives sees your life insurance as a way to success) then when i returned from greece i would buy a house my down payment being with my interest from my cd...but my dream is not to go to greece...i would donate half of the money towards sending kids to college in return that they would contribute what they could after they had graduated towards new students and were gainfully employed..i would bump up my life insurance pay my bills in full and buy my mother a house(she can take care of her children)i would pay off one credit card each and for those that i had not heard from in over 6 months that came a calling i would change my number...i would do the same for my close friends...3...so...here i am... standing in the rain holding a metal rod waiting for lightning!

Anonymous said...

I would do the standard=debts, home, family, retirement.
With the second million I would establish a network of good people I know (clergy, law enforcement, civic organizations) and enable them to make a difference in the lives of people who don't need a lot, but $100 or $200 would change their lives at a given time, touching as many as possible - anonymously.  I would expand the network with the people that were helped.

Anonymous said...

2 Million huh!  Well lets see!  I don't feel money makes you happy, just comfortable.  I would pay off my house first!  I am so tired of stressing about how I am going to pay the mortgage this month.  Then I would pay off my car, and pay all my utility bills up for one year.  I would send my kids to private school, the best school I could find, then I would donate money to my church, atleast 250K.  And let God work out the rest.  Then after I have done all that, I would take a much needed vacation to the islands, I love the islands, and I would leave hubby home with the kids, GOD knows I need a break!  As far as charity, wouldn't give to charitys.  You never know where the money is really going, some how the government finds a way to get there hands on it.

Anonymous said...

If I had 2 million dollars I would put 1/3 in my savings account for college and some for going on vacation. The rest of the money I would give to my family and to various Jewish charities and other charities for the homeless or for kids in Africa, ect...

Anonymous said...

Well with the first mil I would pay off my husband and my debt, by a house, a new car and send my daughter to milatary school for a couple of years, and most of all take a well earned vacation and invest the rest. With the other mil I would donate it to the Cancer Research Foundation and The Make a Wish Foundation. I myself survived childhood cancer and between the Cancer Research and Make a Wish Foundation the money would be well spent. For all the others that talk about partying and being selfish god help that is what is wrong with our world do today No boday cares and always blames everyone else. Take stand and take the time to smell the roses , help a stranger or simply smile a little more here in there.

Anonymous said...

I have realized that money is evil in one sense because it can cause so much chaos when you don't have any.  I find that my almost perfect relationship with my spouse can get rocky from lack of money.  If I somehow got a million dollars which will never happen, I would bring my home and small business' bills up to date.  I have always wanted a pool and to fix the tranny on my car.  I'd put 10,000 away for emergency and then put an ad in the small community magazine that I own asking the community if they know people in need - whether it be shoes for children, food for a table, one mortgage payment needed to stop a foreclosure or to repair a car or even feed a hungry family pet that has gone hungry due to their owners finances.  I would not tell them I had the million dollars because people get greedy but just anonymously help anyone that I could because I know how it is to get hit with all that at once and though I deserve to live in luxury - why get used to it? - What's life when you have everything.  Nothing.  It does not become exciting anymore.  When life is a challenge it's great and it keep you going but sometimes I just wish it were a bit more comfortable especially when we work so hard.  I can be thankful at least for our health right now and working my butt off right now is good exersize.

Anonymous said...

if i had won money like that i would took a million and slit it one half for my mom and other half for my dad becuz they help me so i will help them and other mil i will give my bro and sisther money also and then with other left over put in bank and use some moeny to fix up my place and live my life

Anonymous said...

If I were to have 2 million dollars, the first thing I would do is pay off all of my debt. Then, I would help my mother, put money away for my two sons, give some to charity, and then sit back and enjoy the rest of my life.

Anonymous said...

As I was recently diagnosed with lung cancer, and my future is uncertain at this point, the first thing I would do is to guarantee that my three youngest children (ages 11-17) have an adequate income to take care of their needs in case something happens to me before they turn 18.  I would also set up college funds, pay off the mortgage on our house, and whatever seems to be right to protrect them.  Then I would use part of the money to give it to each of my older, grown children to keep them going, things such as a down payment on a house or the equipment to start a new business, etc. Whatever is left after (IF) I die would be donated to the American Cancer Society to continue research on this horrible disease that destroys lives and families.

Anonymous said...

As I was recently diagnosed with lung cancer, and my future is uncertain at this point, the first thing I would do is to guarantee that my three youngest children (ages 11-17) have an adequate income to take care of their needs in case something happens to me before they turn 18.  I would also set up college funds, pay off the mortgage on our house, and whatever seems to be right to protrect them.  Then I would use part of the money to give it to each of my older, grown children to keep them going, things such as a down payment on a house or the equipment to start a new business, etc. Whatever is left after (IF) I die would be donated to the American Cancer Society to continue research on this horrible disease that destroys lives and families.

Anonymous said...

If I won two million dollars I would...........first off get out of debt. I am a single mom of two and laid off since September 04. I do my best for my kids and I know God will continue to provide for us, but to be out of debt would be fabulous. People tell me my measly debt isn't much but when you live paycheck to paycheck it becomes a lot no matter how much it is. I would also get us out of the small flooding apartment we are in and into a nice small modest home. I wouldn't worry about working anymore and struggling to balance the time between work, housecleaning and my children who are my life. I would finally be able to afford to get my health back in line and have the tests necessary to rule out MS. And fix my teeth. I would also be able to afford the braces for the kids needed. I would use the time extra from now working to do some volunteer work, probably for people low income who need help doing the things I find difficult to balance. I would also volunteer more of my time to my church and the new Youth Facility. We would of course have more room for the animals we love without going overboard (yes...crazy animal lover). I would update my car so I had something safe to drive. I would invest enough for retirement years and both kids college (as of right now I have no idea how I will send them to college: ages 11 ande 12). I would help my parents out a little because they struggle with retirement themselves and that would be about it. As far as a splurge of entertainment I would take my kids to either Disney World or Disney Land and drive the whole way so we could take in the sites along the way. To spend a week or two for once in my life not counting every penny we spend. Then back to real life and volunteering.

Anonymous said...

If I won two million dollars I would...........first off get out of debt. I am a single mom of two and laid off since September 03. I do my best for my kids and I know God will continue to provide for us, but to be out of debt would be fabulous. People tell me my measly debt isn't much but when you live paycheck to paycheck it becomes a lot no matter how much it is. I would also get us out of the small flooding apartment we are in and into a nice small modest home. I wouldn't worry about working anymore and struggling to balance the time between work, housecleaning and my children who are my life. I would finally be able to afford to get my health back in line and have the tests necessary to rule out MS. And fix my teeth. I would also be able to afford the braces for the kids needed. I would use the time extra from now working to do some volunteer work, probably for people low income who need help doing the things I find difficult to balance. I would also volunteer more of my time to my church and the new Youth Facility. We would of course have more room for the animals we love without going overboard (yes...crazy animal lover). I would update my car so I had something safe to drive. I would invest enough for retirement years and both kids college (as of right now I have no idea how I will send them to college: ages 11 ande 12). I would help my parents out a little because they struggle with retirement themselves and that would be about it. As far as a splurge of entertainment I would take my kids to either Disney World or Disney Land and drive the whole way so we could take in the sites along the way. To spend a week or two for once in my life not counting every penny we spend. Then back to real life and volunteering. This was edited sorry had the wrong date.
Comment from samsher8 - 7/30/04 11:39 AM

Anonymous said...

If I were given two million $ I would first give the first ten% to the Lord so that really good things could be done with it.  Than I would pay myself with investing it to make more money for myself. Now with the earnings that I make off my investments I would by my dream home and buy my mother hers as well.  I would try not to let the money change who I am and I am a child of God.

Anonymous said...

I would give the first million to my son, David...He's homeless after loosing his job of 12 years. His wife is a drug user and left his with 2 small boys, Nicholas 5 and Zach 4 today, July 30th. My husband and I tried to help him, including his staying with us, but it didn't work..My son and I are at each other throats like sharks on fish. He needs to know what a 'normal' life is like..to provide a home, clean and secure for those beautiful boys. He's never known what it's like to buy his own car (my husband, his step father and I have purchased a dozen or more cars for him during the years) and now we are out of money and resources to help him any more. I would make sure the money went for the babies, to get a home...clean cloths...decent food...toothpaste.......

The second million I would share with my brothers and with my husbands family, and of course ourselves.

Anonymous said...

If I won $2mil the first thing i would do is tell my principal to go f&#@ herself, and exactly how.  Next I would go on a yearlong sabbatical and decide if i wanted to continue teaching or make a new career.  I trully hate working of any kind but $2mil is not enough to go on permanent vacation with.  I would, of course py debts, natch!  Possibly, after travaling the world frugally for a few years, buy the largest, INEXPENSIVE amount of land near a "real city":Chicago, New York, Boston, or Philadelphia and start my own NO-KILL animal shelter.  THere is no greater way to make more millions than to have your own charity be it church or cause.  I would take care of friends first and family last, as my friends r my tru family, then I would figure out what trouble i could get into, like politics, I've always wanted to get into politics.

Anonymous said...

Wow if I won 2 million? Jaysus. I would probably donate like 15,000 to PETA and 15,000 to theater. The rest would be for me and I would adopt someone and get a VW bug converatble!
Go to my site:
http://journals.aol.com/RachOH322/DiaryofaDramaqueen

RKO*

Anonymous said...

First..I'd be very thankful...then have a drink.  As soon as the check has cleared, and is in my checking account - first - all the bills get paid.  The feeling of being debt free.  Next - I would give my dad a few hundred thousand...that goes without saying.  NEXT - I would donate 50 GRAND to "THE Best Friends Animal Sanctuary."   Next, another donation to another charity involving..children.  Next...I would take a few months off and go hang-around the hawaiian islands and go to some health spa.  NEXT would be...SCHOOL.  Go to college, get a degree and/or work at a job/career I love !  instead of wasting it..which I have.  If I wanted an education in..Forensic Science...etc..something I like - I know it costs $$$..WHO wants the burden and worries of "loans" and one class costs as much as $700...  so - i dont go to school.  Money stays in bank..open an IRA...hire a 'financial' planner...there's so much - just hope the one's WHO have lots of $money$ appreciate it... (which alot of them don't) they take IT ALL FOR GRANTED !!  its always the case...the greedy, spoiiled, me-me-me-unappreciate ones have all the dough !

Anonymous said...

The 2 million would cover my debts and get me a new house. What was left over after thet I would tuck away in a bank or other safe investment to live of the intrest.
As for the 2 million for charity I am a member of the Lions Club so I would donate to the various project the lions support. Lions Eye Foundation, City of Hope, Canine Companions for Independance, etc.

Anonymous said...

Hmmmm, one million dollars.  I've alway been a generous person so I would have to give each of my friends at least $35,000 which would still leave me with enough money to pay my bills, my son's college education and put away for my daughter's college fund or wedding.  I don't need much to live on.  As for the
2 million donation,  I would donate it to BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse).
It's a worthy cause and every little bit helps.

Anonymous said...

If I won two million the first thing I would do is thank God that my prayers have been answered and I would than pay my bills off. My husband and I are about 20 thousand dollars in debt and I would than buy a home here in North Carolina the home of Ft. Bragg where my husband has retired. I can purchase a very nice one for about 250,000. Then I would put my four grown children through college or a trade school. And move them to the school that  they want to attend. I would give my family some money. I would buy my husband brand new SUV. I would put up a trust fund for my two grandchilden of 25,000. The remider of my money I would invest. The second million dollars I would buy realtor estate property for single parents that I attend church with me  so that they could have affordable housing. I would donate to a women shelter for batter women also to get on thier feet.

Anonymous said...

I myself think it is unfathomable to read what some are saying, everyone says they would donate to this and that, i do not believe any of it because face it people, Money is evil i will not even stoop to the level to say what i would or would not do with 2 million. I will show people what i would do with it were it in my hand, but i'm not a dreamer i live in harsh reality that seeing as my family was not rich neither will i be..... God love you all!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

i dunno what you guys are tokking about but that women has sexy lips...i think anyone with those kinda lips would get 2 million...lolllllllllll

Anonymous said...

I'd pay off my mom's and mom-in-law's house. I'd rent an apartment in Westwood and go to UCLA like I was supposed to this fall (couldn't afford it). I'd invest at least half of the 2 million and live off the interest, maybe I'd buy a car, a Prius maybe. Set up college trusts for my nieces (3 of those) and nephews (7 of those). I'd take the whole fam to DisneyWorld for two weeks. I'd like to give about a quarter of a million to charity, but I'm not sure which one I'd like to give to (maybe 5k to a bunch of them?)

Anonymous said...

Well I like so many others would pay off all debts , buy a new G M C pick-up finnish decorating our apt., try to pay the state for plates and drivers license for the next 20 years in advance, buy my wife a huge dimond ring, pay my rent for the next 20 years, then charity ?well I would like to start my own one that would explore and invent ways to build cities so we could house everyone on the planeton ground that can't be farmed,and would find alternate power for transportation systems, and develope food sorcess that will feed man for eternity.Planii

Anonymous said...

If u have had the problems I've had like living on the edge for years now, it's not the best feeling in the world you are wondering where is the money going to coming from to pay the bills. You have a steady job you have direct deposit but it's not enough money to cover the car note phone bill cable rent etc. So what is one to do? play the mega millions powerball lottery, good luck or u can do what I always do find a quiet place in your home and reach out and pray with a real heart and ask the Lord to help u with want u need to be done.  God Bless us all

Anonymous said...

if i won 2 million dollars i would first buy a nice house around the southern cali area (600,000)then the second thing i would do is buy about 2 or 3 cars fix them all up real nice (150,000) then the 3rd thing i would do is pay off all my sisters debt (20,000) and buy her a nice house in vegas (150,000) and buy her a car (50,000) the 4th thing i would do is buy my dad a nice house (500,000) the 5th thing i would do is invest it or buy a bussiness so i would never have to work    everyone that says that they will give it to carity and shit there a bunch of liers once u have the money in your hand u think alot different then jus in your dreams so jus stop lieing about donating it all

Anonymous said...

if I won two million tax free dollars I would invest wisely so that my money could grow. That way after a few years in the world i would settle down and start up my own summer camp rental place for inner city youth free of charge. If I had to give it to charity I would donate half to two programs close to my hear that provide low income inner city childern with the opportunity to go to camp each summer. So that more childern can experience all the great things about camp.

Anonymous said...

If I had 2 million dollars, Out of obedience I would first give 10% to the Lord, I would then of course take care of my house hold as the Lord also says to do, I would then get my mother a house all on one floor to keep her from climbing the stairs, I would then get my baby sister a very reliable vehicle because she is so faithful to her church and her job, so that would really help her. and the I would invest some of the rest, and help my neighbor who is struggling with her 2 children. But I guess I all in all would seek God's advice on how to spend this money, but these are my ideas. (2) If I had 2 million dollars to donate to charity, I would donate it to Hospice of Dayton, they are a wonderful organization, and make the last days on earth for cancer patients really comfortable and as pleasant as they can. they were very good with my Grandmother, and I would like to see this organization have all the funds they need to continue in their service.
                                                                 Dee

Anonymous said...

2 million dollars? I have often wondered about this. I'm young, why not? It could happen. I would buy a huge portion of the rain forest and turn it into a wildlife preserve. Why? The way that the rain forest is depleted (5,000 acres each day) just makes me depressed, because once it's gone we can never have it back. I would probably have a mil left. I would put up 250,000 to invest, 250,000 to my family (that would include a log cabin that my mother's always dreamed of, and my mother-in-law a house that she owns herself). I would like to splurge on my own education. Then I would buy my own house, car, and neccesseties, nothing fancy. For donations, I would fund my own organization. It would consist of cloning, raising, releasing, and tracking endangered species of all across the globe. (To me that would be the smartest thing to do with today's cloning technology.) My reasoning for this is, once again, when they're gone, they are gone forever. I've thought about what it would be like to be a child in the future to see a sketch of some extinct species, a panda for instance, and just wonder what they would look like in real life. As a child, I often wondered what a dodo bird, or a Tasmanian Tiger would look like. If I could keep any endangered species alive and thriving, I would be happy.  

Anonymous said...

If I had to give two million dollars away to charity. One million would go to St. Jude Hosp, The other to the Burn Hosp. for children.

Anonymous said...

yeah right, hey, i've had tons of money.  and i spent it all.  probably what i'd do with the two million you fools would give me.  i used to think i'd save and retire.  retirement if for those that are ready to die.  and you know what?! i really like getting drunk in Jamaica.  you should try it, it's fun.  i'd give a few thousand to a chiroprctic society, in the hopes it would piss off all those greedy medical doctors that give you those little white pills for EVERYTHING (here, get out of my office, take your drugs , swallow them, they may make you feel loopy, but that's ok, it's what you came in for anyway, isn't it.  and leave me alone, just give me enough money so my daughter can have a pretty car, natch, oh yeah, i'll bill your insurance for the rest.)

I wouldn't give to charity because they would spend the money unwisely.  and i wouldn't tithe to the lord, cuz (and you know this is true) i don't want the preacher to have a bigger house than me, and i don't care if his son DOES need to go to a private law school.  and i'm not paying for catholic pedophilia, and i sure as hell don't want to see another 3 million dollar church going up.  

as for the second million, hell, have you ever been to tahiti?  it's beautiful, but the beer is real expensive.
pete

Anonymous said...

ALL I read is '' IF I HAD''
deamers wake up!!  you can, all you must do is
1 work like no one would for 10 years
2 live like no one could for 20

don't go through life a wannabe, your dream can be real if you make it real
stop living someone's good fortune make your own HUTTNER1

Anonymous said...

2 million, tax free dollars. I would donate the entire amount to 2 of my favorite charities, Calvary Church of the Islands and Me then move to a smaller island and retire. If everyone that reads these comments would send me $1.00 when the 2 million arrived I could let You all know first hand, no imagining.

Anonymous said...

Wow, money - money! Woohoo! I would hire a financial planner, pay all my debts (under $10,000) and put a large down payment on a house in the Maryland - DC area (about $200,000).   I would pre-pay my youngest's tuition for the next several years to the Waldorf School. I'd probably blow a couple ten thousands on household stuff and clothes for myself and my kids. I'd keep my van but buy one of the new hybrid cars to have for cruising the city. The Montgomery County Crisis Center would get a chunk (determined with the advice of the financial planner) specified for domestic violence victims and families. I'd put the rest in diverse investments. (again with the advice of the planner).

Two million for charity? That would be fun! After a chunk went to the Montgomery County Crisis Center, I would have a blast with the rest! I'd find deserving families in my area and help them out. A new car. A home renovation. School tuition for a private school. New furniture after a fire. Stuff like that. I could probably get matching funds from some local organizations, too! The charity could be stretched to help so many people - it would be so thrilling to play that role!

Anonymous said...

Definitely would use the money to take care of some things at home, first. My boyfriend and I would like to start a bed and breakfast - so a majority of the money would be used to fund that. I would have to pay off all our debts. It's not a huge sum but I would definitely want to get them cleared. After that, I would put some away for my daughter's college education. And then I would help my mom and dad out with some of their debts. If there is enough left over, I would help my sister too. Ideally,I would have enough left over to put in savings. You notice I don't mention giving any of it to charities. I have an organization in mind that I want to create - already am working on getting it off the ground - so that would be the organization that I would "donate" to.

If I had two mill to give only to charity - I would definitely donate it to the Lifelong Aids Alliance. Those folks do an amazing work with people that certain segments of society would rather not be reminded of. So, my money - both millions - would go there.

Anonymous said...

Robbie must be a liberal.  Even when she is given $2 million, she does not give any to charity.

Anonymous said...

When I get two million dollars, I would ensure that my family is comfortable placed for the rest of their lives and then the resto of the money would be donated to a Charity organisation called Sisu Bhavan assisting children with disability and who are looking after orphan Children in India. As I am locatedin India, would ensure taht the downtroden is lifeted up and give a life tolive again.

Anonymous said...

my own ideas are much like your own.  first, buy a house, in the decent but not decadent half a mil range.  pay off debts, buy things to make life a little bit easier for myself and my family.  i am lucky enough to have a brilliant financial mind for a maternal uncle.  i would contribute to parkinson's research because my mother is fighting it now and it there have been people from both sides of my family that have had it.  i would definately try to endow the children in the family (charity, after all, begins at home) with money for education, travel, or, should they choose at the age of 21 to do so, fritter away however they please.

Anonymous said...

This is easy for me to answer.  My Mom always helped people by running a food bank and even giving her own money to help with electric bills.  By being taught that every person is important and knowing for myself what it is like to go without food I would open a food bank in my Mothers memory and continue her work with the same passion that she felt for others.  Next time you see a homeless person or someone in line at the Grocery store using food stamps don't think they are getting something free be thankful of everything you have because it can be taken from you and who would you turn too?

Anonymous said...

Like many others I would pay off my home and car to get out of debt.

Working in the credit industry, I would start a foundation to teach others what is credit/debt is.  If a person is in high debt how to get out of it or options.

My goal is to see bankruptcy rate go down in the USA which is 1out of every 67 American are filing.

Anonymous said...

ok I would pay off my house which I owe 104,000. on and then give my kids all 20.000. to all of my kids. which is 500,000.Next I would buy a motor home and a new vehicle. pay off our semi.  Then my husband and I are going to start giving the rest of the money to God for if it wasn't for him I would never have won a dime. We have prayed about this a long time and if we ever do win anything we are using at least half to give to God. Trying to help all the lost souls find christ and a warm place to lay thier head. God Bless you all Carol

Anonymous said...

If I had that much spit money,  I would split it 50/50 with my best friend.  Why you ask? She is a single mother like myself working to make ends meet.  She invited me and my son to live in her house rent free so I could purchase my own house.  I'm from San Diego and re-located to Victorvile in the hopes of buying something next year since the real estate market is too high for me to even afford a condo.  With her help, I'll be able to get something for my son that I can't at home.  With that money, she could pay off her house and her college tuitions.  We would also have some nice accounts for our kids and we all would be sitting pretty.
Would I really do this?  In a heartbeat.

MaryAnn Duran

Anonymous said...

I would give 10% to my church, invest and save 10% and I would pay off my house and my daughter's house.  The remaining money I would help my son and grandchildren with college.  I would help my parents.  I'd love to take my whole family on a wonderful vacation.  I'd give to certain causes that are close to my heart.  I'd try to be wise with it and make it last me for the rest of my life.  I'm not much of a dreamer, but this is fun to dream about.

Anonymous said...

By obtaining 2million doesn't seem achievable. I live in a small town in Northwestern Iowa.  It seems as though big things happen to people with bigger opportunities that live in bigger cities and not those who live in small towns that have to work 40+ hours just to put food on the table. I am a stay at home Mom because my son has a skin disease called Eczema.   Nathan will have to stay for home school because the school will not allow him.  I would give 500,000 to the National Eczema Foundation and to the CMN for children.  Was always told the key to the future starts with the children. Since I stay home it is hard to pay the house payment and we pay one bill and not the other.  Having a house pd off &  taxes pd far out at 10 years.  Move to a warmer climate for Nathan.  In Iowa there is a lot of humidity instead of a dry heat. 500,000 dollars on a house for the whole family.   Each boy would get there own room for once.  Make my husbands dream come true of  a garage to put his truck in and a shop for him.   I would by me a new mustang 30,000.  Contact TLC overhauling and see if they could restore my husbands trk. I have tried a couple times in the past of get on the show but no luck.  If that doesn't work I would give him 30,000 to buy him new 4x4 chevy.  Buy a boat for the family we spend hours on the lake 25,000. My my and dad got a divorce I have been taken care of my younger brother.  I will give him a new house and car valued at 500,000.  Buy some land of the rest of family to spilt 100,00 5 acre lots. Get health insurance.  Now with the rest.  
The rest we would get an investor to help us.  2million to donate I would do a couple things. Donate to research centers for children.  Eczema Foundation,  Diabetes, Aids Foundation, Dare Programs, Sioux City Police Dept and also help the soldiers that are serving the United States.  My brother is

Anonymous said...

By obtaining 2million doesn't seem achievable. I live in a small town in Northwestern Iowa.  It seems as though big things happen to people with bigger opportunities that live in bigger cities and not those who live in small towns that have to work 40+ hours just to put food on the table. I am a stay at home Mom because my son has a skin disease called Eczema.   Nathan will have to stay for home school because the school will not allow him.  I would give 500,000 to the National Eczema Foundation and to the CMN for children.  Was always told the key to the future starts with the children. Since I stay home it is hard to pay the house payment and we pay one bill and not the other.  Having a house pd off &  taxes pd far out at 10 years.  Move to a warmer climate for Nathan.  In Iowa there is a lot of humidity instead of a dry heat. 500,000 dollars on a house for the whole family.   Each boy would get there own room for once.  Make my husbands dream come true of  a garage to put his truck in and a shop for him.   I would by me a new mustang 30,000.  Contact TLC overhauling and see if they could restore my husbands trk. I have tried a couple times in the past of get on the show but no luck.  If that doesn't work I would give him 30,000 to buy him new 4x4 chevy.  Buy a boat for the family we spend hours on the lake 25,000. My my and dad got a divorce I have been taken care of my younger brother.  I will give him a new house and car valued at 500,000.  Buy some land of the rest of family to spilt 100,00 5 acre lots. Get health insurance. The rest we would get an investor to help us.  2million to donate I would do a couple things. Donate to research centers for children.  Eczema Foundation,  Diabetes, Dare Programs, Sioux City Police Dept and also help the soldiers that are serving the US. My brother is over in AFG. right now.  

Anonymous said...

If I had two million dollars to donate to charity, I would start a and job placement for young men who have went down the wrong path at an early age. I will see that these young men are trained in the business world. I will have strick rules. I will make sure that these young men get an education. I will help them get out of the system and  become productive individuals in their communities and one requirement for these young men would be for them to help one other young man  and make sure that young men become a productive person also.

Anonymous said...

2 million! I would have to move out of the State of CA to make it go further!
We all have those dreams and stricking it big time but 2 million would propably corrupt most of us since most of us don't even know how to handle a credit card let alone cash of this magnitude. I read that statisticly 80% of lotto winners go bust after 2 years because they don't know how to manage the new life style.
This is going to sound weird but the people who are born rich know how to act rich and handle money much better than most with just a high school education.

I guess I would like to have the problem of wondering if I could handle 2 million!

I will never know!

Anonymous said...

2,000,000$  I would buy NQU which is paying about 6.5% tax free. Thats about $130,000 per year tax free. Rich people do this!  I would give my kids and grandkids 10,000 per year and live on the $80,000 somehow:)
 

Anonymous said...

The dream would not be to be given 2 million dollars, the real dream would be that they were tax free.

Anonymous said...

1st-I WOULD THANK THE MOST HIGH GOD! ! ! 2nd-Pray about what to do with it. 3rd-Take care of my mother. She has many illnesses including diabetes, high blood pressure, and due to years of medication was diagnosed with hepatitis C, and the doctor told her she should get a liver transplant. So I would make sure she recieves the best medical treatment for all this, so that I could truley focus on my other interests. 4th-Making sure to use it the way God wants me to, I would clear my Moms debt and put her in a comfortable home. 5th-Help my brother out, because he should be a millionaire. He's earned a couple of millions over the past 8 years and blew it, and I've learned from his mistakes. 6th-I would invest a good portion of it so that I can remain wealthy. Particularly in real estate. 7th-Use my new free time to invest in others, especially young people. 8th-Ultimately start a social service center that caters mainly to young people, yet all would be welcomed, to come and learn how to make the best use of their lives by accomplishing their dreams and obtain financial freedom. If half or all had to be given to charity I would donate to The Angel Network, because the money would go to many charities improving the lives of many people.

Anonymous said...

Of course, I'd pay more than the 10% to God, Whose benevalence gave it to me in the 1st place! I would give my two (2) siblings & one (1) nephew $10,000 eah and then repair my home for my home-based business, which is a personal care home!

Anonymous said...

PRAY  AND ASK FOR GOD'S GUIDANCE ON HOW HE WANTS ME TO USED IT...
TO MUCH MONEY CAN CORRUPT YOUR LIFE ........PRAY  DEEPLY AND ASK FOR
GUIDANCE AND WISDOM

Anonymous said...

If I had 2 million bucks.  I would definitely donate a half million to charites.  I would pick The Cancer Society, HIV/AIDS research, Alzheimer's, various Pet Shelters, YWCA, and Battered Women's Shelters to start.  I would maintain these donations for the rest of my life.  How?  Later.  The other half of the first million would be for my Mom, Dad, Siblings, and Children (four daughters).  The last million would be for real estate/"Green Energy" investments.  I would purchase several multi-unit properties.  Then change them to "Green Energy" rooming houses.  Rent the rooms to employed or retired singles depending on the area and buliding.  Then open a "Green Energy" business that caters to hardworking men and women.  Blackouts like last summer would no longer be possible, when I finish.  Bank some of the profits and travel the world.  Write my autobiography and travel the world.

Anonymous said...

With 2 million dollars ya may think i am nuts but i would give it all to charity im happy the way i work for my money . It shows that i worked for it and i earned it .Money is only good on the paper it is printed on. Also in closing you really got stop and think if you had everything you ever wanted how happy would you really be think about it.

Anonymous said...

If I came into 2 million dollars and uncle sam was in the clear, I would give my 10% to God.  I would give the Red Cross a donation.  The next step would be to set up a college fund to educate low income children.  I would take a large portion and open up an account to senior citizens for medication.  I would take the little I have left, and build me a house out in the country.  I would buy real estate, and rent it to low income families.  I would buy a thousand trees, and plant them in the new development, and add a pond.  I would buy new school books for the children in, Alabama.

Anonymous said...

Invest the first million to produce regular monthly income
Move to florida, take 100k and start my own BBQ shack in a small town on the gulf coast (my life long dream - i cook some serious baby backs and pulled pork)
The balance to be distributed among family members and charities for children and medical research...(got to do my part in this world)

Anonymous said...

I was raised that charity begins at home. The first think would be to take care of my mother, after donating 10 plus percent to GOD.  Buy my father a headstone. Help my little brother and his family, he has given up so much by helping support our mother. Next I would donate to the Down Syndrome Foundation and Special Olympics. Next I would help my children and grandkids. Next I would purchase a modest home for my husband and myself. I would also like to donate to the families who have lost there husbands and parents in this war we are in. The rest I would invest wisely to help others later.

Anonymous said...

First I would faint.  After reviving me, I'd thank Jesus, thank Him again,and pray for wisdom before doing anything else.  I believe that money is the root of all evil, IF IT CONTROLS YOU.   That's why I'd seek Godly counsel in dispersing it so that many people would be blessed.  Money spent wisely can do wonders, but greed is like a disease.  I would sincerely try to keep calm and walk softly before making any hasty decisions.   There are so many worthwhile, beneficial things to do, and people to assist, and a few little secret desires I'd like to see come to pass too.  That was nice, now I'll return to the REAL world......If I won two million, I don't think it would sink in right away.  I'd probably wear out the carpet, rejoicing!  So many people are suffering because of the lack of money.  I guess I'd have to be in the position to come up with the right things to do!  However, I'd have an in-ground pool built, because that is the one luxury I've dreamed about since I was a child.  

Anonymous said...

This has been a topic of many discussions between my friends and I, so I've known this answer for well over 15 years. VERY simply put, I would take 10% for myself and purchase a home and other basic necesities. The other 90% would go to homing the homeless. As a Realtor, I would be hands-on in acquiring the properties and "re-humanizing" the homeless. I would solicit government backing at ALL levels of government and serve homeless families. Actually, I am on my way now as I am a Realtor conducting homebuyer seminars in the very government subsidized housing complex where I was raised. Teaching a person to fish is only the first half...the actual benefit of teaching a person to fish is that serving your brother/neighbor is that it pays back ten fold!...at least...
I am witness.

Anonymous said...

Smiles all, hmmmmm upon pondering the 2 million thought I developed this sense of inner peace, that I may have an opportunity to contribute to worthy causes and make some sort of difference in the world......

Naturally I would be generous with my family 500 K would be given between everyone.

I would spend 1.4 million to create a grant for education in elementary schools for classmates, teachers and parents of children with disabilities. This would be specific to the least understood disabilities, with stereotypes associated with them, such as ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive disorders and Tourettes syndrome.

There is very little truthful non sterotypical information available to the general public therefore the disabled children and their families suffer enormously due to others ignorance. ( The word ignorance is being used purely to express lack of knowledge and information and not at all mean't in a demeaning manner.)Education and compassion would go hand in hand and make life much more fullfilling for the children who are disabled.

A grant of this nature may encourage others to donate and perhaps this grant would perpetuate itself over years and develop into additional areas to help children.. I would donate my time to development and maintenance of the grant program since i have prior expertise in grants for higher education.

Oh yes and I would keep 100 k for my hubby and my retirement, and continue to work in my small accounting business as I currently do.

Life wouldn't change for me directly but it would in my soul...........

Smiles

Thanks for listening to my pipe dream...........

Violet

Anonymous said...

I would invest the first million for a steady cash flow. The second million, I would also invest, but use the interest to give awards to students at local schools for leadership and community service, and buy equipment for a local trade school (my Alma Mater). I would also be able to do more school shows as I'm an entertainer part time. I'd do shows on health and better eating, getting along with others, and self esteem and following your dreams. So if there are any rich people with money to burn, with no strings, I can put it to good use.
Walt

P. S. Never underestimate the power of a caring smile.

Anonymous said...

I would do the same thing with the first Million as I would with the second Million.  I would love to make sure people who needed things go them.  I mean "needed"  not "wanted"  I love to see people smile, love to see there needs are met.  I is very rewarding to help people.


Anonymous said...

Some people say winning the lottery would be a curse.  I would like to think it would be a blessing.  If the right person won.  

Anonymous said...

I would invest the first million in a fair but low risk investment vehicle. The interest from that investment would be dispersed to my daughters and brothers for their daily living . I would use the second million to sustain my daily living and would invest some of it as well . I would though use a large portion of the second million to lobby on Capital hill to focus on and better the medical equipment and delivery systems for US Veterans. I would also enlarge my own real world business which is in that same realm.The US VA's waste millions of dollars per year paying for substandard services for our Veterans.The Veterans can do nothing but accept these services as their is usually no other alternative simpply because no one has the time to put the proper systems in place to change this situation.Money spent making the system better for our Vets would be money very well spent.The waste in this system is inexcusbale and in the end it is our Vets who pay the price by receiving substandard services while those delivering the service is paid in a first class manner.
 If I were to do the donation avenue ,their are so many worthwile cause that it would be tough. A very large amount of the money would go to St. judes  childrens hospital for the wonderful work they do . A substantial amount would go to PETA and The Fund For Animals as bot these groups do a stellar job in working to protect the animals from man.I would donate the remainder to legit charites who work to make this world a better place as we all know this planet needs all the help it can get

Anonymous said...

I've always dreamed of being a millionaire but reality is that the Golden Goose does not live at my front doorstep and a money tree is not sprouting in my backyard. If I ever had such a windfall I'd pay every creditor until I was totally out of debt. Ah! What a great feeling that would be! I'd run around dancing saying, "I'm free!I'm free at last!"
I'd still have plenty left over so I'd help my adult children and their families too of course. I'd tuck some away, under my mattress, for my grandchildrens college education. When they got old enough to enter college I'd make a deal with them. Good grades the money keeps coming but if they choose to falter the freebie tuition would stop.
I'd donate to Stroke Research and begin a Foundation for all stroke survivors to help with their medication costs and long term home health concerns.
Cleo

Anonymous said...

This has to be a question that at one point or another we have all wondered about. I am young and a mother of 2 under the age of 4 so I know that 2 million will not go far. I would first buy my family a nice house (in NH it would be about $350,000). Then my parents have always wanted a house on their local lake (about $300,000)...I figure then they would sell the house they have now and use that money for retirement or to travel. I would then set up college funds for my kids since it will probably cost them around $100,000 a year by the time they go to college in 15 years. I would then give my family and friends a good chunk...probably $50,000 each. I would finally buy my husband and I new cars (we are not picky...only about $30,000 each at best). Then take my whole family on vacation for a couple weeks.
For charities I would fund a teen center for the town I grew up in since they have wanted one for years. I would then set up $20,000 a year college scholarships for local kids in financial burdens, then donate an enormous chunk to the CDLS Foundation for research since my 2 year old daughter suffers from this genetic disorder.
But here is to dreaming!

Anonymous said...

IF I WERE TO WIN TWO MILLION DOLLARS I WOULD GIVE ALL BUT TEN PERCENT TO THE PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL, AS THAT WOULD BE MOST IMPORTANT TO ME! GIVE .02 PERCENT TO A PENPAL I CORRESPOND WITH THAT IS IN A DIFFICULT SITUATION AT THIS PRESENT MOMENT, THAT WILL CONTINUE FOR A YEAR AND A HALF MORE. WITH THE REMAINING EIGHT PERCENT I WOULD TAKE MY CHILDREN ON A WELL DESERVED VACATION, AFTER BEING IN A ROUGH SITUATION SINCE DEC. 17TH, 2001. BEFORE THE VACATION I WOULD HAVE TO PAY THE ATTY.'S WHO RESCUED US FROM SUCH A DEVASTATING  SITUATION. KNOWING THAT AS ALWAYS OUR BASIC NEEDS ARE MET. AS MONEY IS A JUST A MONETARY MEANS OF EXCHANGE NOT MEANT FOR HAPPINESS, AS HAPPINESS COMES FROM WITHIN ONES HEART!

Anonymous said...

First I would pay off my brother and sister in laws mortage without them knowing about it and hoping they would never find out who did it and then I would donate to Ovarian Cancer research and then I would like to buy a house for all those who are suffering from this dreaded disease and have lost all their money to it so they would have a place to live in peace for their final days. I am a five years survivor with a three time reoccurence so I know what I am talking about. These are my only wishes

Anonymous said...

If I would given two million, first I would pay-off my debts and the rest will go to charity--donw sydrome or community charity organization that needs the money to development housing and employment for people that community that do not have the resources.

Anonymous said...

IF TIME KNOCK ON MY DOOR AND HANDED ME A CHECK FOR 1,2 ARE 3 MILLION ! I WOULD THANK GOD AND I WOULD GIVE MY TIES TO HIS WORK. THEN I WOULD PLAY OFF MY HOME AND MOVE HER SOME WERE NICE. I WOULD BYE SOME LG LAND AND HAVE HOME BUILD ON IT FOR MY KIDS AND THIERS KIDS AND MY SISTERS AND BROTHERS! ONLY IF THEY WOULD GIVE UP THIER BAD WAY'S. BUT I WOULD LOVE TO DREAME ON BECAUSE IT MAKE LIFE MORE WONDERFULL.

Anonymous said...

well if you are smart you manage to fix it where you can live off the intrest ''  and from that point on if there are more monies then you travel off of the intrest of that money rest of your life ;;  

Anonymous said...

1.  I would donate the first million to my church to pay off the mortgage on the church and take care of building repairs since all church attendance is is decline and GOD always seems to have time for us.
2.  I would then bank the second million in many banks since there are restrictions in the amount of money the FDIC will cover in each account.
3.  I would use the interest wisely to support my family.
4.  Continue living life each day as if nothing had changed, enjoying all that has been provided to us.

Anonymous said...

As far as the "Extra Credit" question, I would pray to GOD for guidance to direct the $2 million to his desired place.  After all everying belongs to GOD and we only are allowed to use it by his hand.  GOD will find the best place for his gift.

Anonymous said...

I will create a fund for young talanted but not luky people or something like "make a wish" for deadly ill children, then I will buy house for my Mother and if I have something left then I will help my son with his dream to be a model.

Anonymous said...

donate all to bilgate'DROPOUT' WIFE foundation!

Anonymous said...

I would pay off my mortgages and other debts with the first $350,000, and use the rest of the million to begin to establish a not for profit organization. A large horse ranch where neglected juvenile delinquents, who are first time offenders, could live, work, improve their self esteem, and hopefully get on the right track in life.  The second million would just about give us enough money to get started, along with all the money I'd be begging Corporate America and some celebrities to donate.

Anonymous said...

Personally, I don 't think any one that does or would acquire this amount of money would be thinking first of charities or even tithes/giving to the church.  I've been w/out a job since Feb 4th, if I were to get 1 mil, or 2 mil for that matter, this is what I would do w/ the money:
*pay off all bills
*buy house & say bye to so-called (lousy) landlord
*fill new home w/ all new furniture, including my hubby's 60" Philips wide screen   hdtv that we lost when I lost my job
*get our dream cars, for hubby: 04 Chev SSR and a used truck for work; for me: Mercedes-Benz Roadster; and for the family:  Yukon
*a boat for hubby to go fishing
*pay for nail technician course for myself
*Save some $$...but keep working, too
*Give $50,000 to my mom and $200,000 to my sister and her family