Optimism — Hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something.
Optimism –In philosophy, the doctrine, as set forth by Leibniz, that the world is the best of all possible worlds.
Tax Day — April 15th. A day dreaded by all. This date is not usually accompanied by an optimistic feeling. I wish to change that for myself.
Yesterday, while remaining optimistic, I spent the morning massaging the entries in Turbo Tax to come up with an amount of money that will represent my donation to the United States Government.
Tax Day. Last year, preparing our taxes was one of the last things VST lovingly did for me. His 2019 Tax folder proudly displays some of the last numbers and words he wrote. Although I always joined him to approve and sign the resulting document, he created the tax return after completing the heavy lifting all year long. Just one of the hundreds of things VST handled so quietly and perfectly while he was alive.
Grateful that Turbo Tax is available, I started entering documents a month ago when the kids (who aren’t kids, but adults) were here. It’s pretty amazing how many tax documents arrived after the first of the year. I’d just put them in my own tax folder marked 2020 Taxes, just as VST would have done. Pretty soon, my little folder was bulging. I must admit, I was a bit overwhelmed by the number of important documents.
Soon, I couldn’t ignore the task at hand. One by one, I entered the information written on the forms, and soon, I created my very own 2020 Federal Tax Return. Just ‘Like That! One entry at a time, until my folder was empty. Then, I created a binder of supporting documents, printed a copy of the tax return, while reviewing the numbers many, many times. I found some glaring mistakes and a few not so obvious, until the resulting Tax Return is one that makes me smile. Professional and complete, with supporting documents and worksheets.
During this little adventure in computer entries, the worst thing occured. My internet service went down. Drat. With terrible timing, I could have run aground. But, with a simple phone call, I reach a lovely technician who found the trouble and got me back online. She, too, had such a sweet demeanor, which made the entire situation better. In an hour, things were fixed and I was computing taxes, again. Our combined attitude helped to make the situation conquerable and pleasant.
Later today, I’m going to see my Certified Public Account (CPA) for one last look. It never hurts to have things checked over by a professional. Just maybe he’ll look and find a glaring error that will save me hundreds or thousands of dollars. Maybe the government owes ME money. Maybe A LOT. Maybe………. Well, maybe I’m a bit giddy that I just got the darn thing done. I accept the amount that I owe and will send it off as soon as I get the green light from the CPA.
Optimistic at the entire process, I hope a least a small portion of the money I send in can be used to help someone, adding to the greater good. VST would be depressed for a few days after the taxes were done. Just moping around with a heavy heart. We all have a choice in how we look at things. I could easily go down that path, fuming about the waste in government and how the small amount I’m contributing (Not Small To Me!) will be thrown to the wind. Or, I can just envision it doing some good. I’m choosing to be optimistic, because either way, I need to write a check and send it on its way.
My CPA owns and runs a prestigious accounting firm. When I met him last fall, we had a great visit. He’s upbeat and positive, which makes today’s visit something to which I’ll look forward. His secretary called me on Friday to confirm the appointment, and she was a bit of bubbling happiness on the phone. Just checking to make sure I’d be there. I’m thankful she wasn’t down in the dumps, too. After a drive through the high desert, today’s trip to the state capital will be something different and fun. Another milestone will be met. My first Tax Return as a widow will be completed. Another thing I’ve accomplished, that I didn’t know I could.
Optimistically, I am cleaning up the desk, feeling the taxes are complete and ready for the mail. A coat of furniture polish will bring out the shine on the rich mahogany finish. After a bit of shredding, the process of saving documents for next year will again begin. I’m hopeful that next year, I’ll need to report income from book sales. Don’t worry, Uncle Sam, I’ll save a little for you. Just don’t be too greedy. A new author needs some pocket change left over for fun.