Why Save Money?

From Bankrate.com's Savings Guide for 2006:

• 9 best reasons to save money"
  
  Retirement is the long-term goal. Many people like the idea of not having to work, to some day do what they want, but on average, they're not saving enough to get to that point. Saving money should be a bit painful. As George Clason wrote in Richest Man in Babylon, the desires of man are without limit, and must be prioritized. Those that can't be afforded, can't be afforded. Mark them off the list.
  
  Pensions and Social Security aren't things that can be counted on. Companies can go out of business or abandon their pension plans through bankruptcy protection, and the government can adjust Social Security benefits at any time or raise taxes to pay for it.
  
  The article lists 7 other reasons to save: emergencies, college, dreams, financial independence, being able to take advantage of opportunities, it builds character, and it feels good.
  
  
• ATM surcharges still rising
  Meanwhile, here's another way to cut into your savings: visiting the ATM and paying fees to withdraw your money. Like a leaking tire or water pipe, these little fees are leaks in your budget that can end up costing you a lot of money over time.
  
  
• Bankrate's fall '06 checking study: Fees rise again
  Bounced check fees are rising. This is a fee you should never have. You shouldn't write a check or use the debit card if the money isn't already available in your account. With online account access so widely available, this shouldn't be hard to manage.
  
  
• 15 secrets debt counselors wish you knew
  These common mistakes can snowball until you're tens of thousands of dollars in debt. Avoid them.