Good discussion. It is important for people to remember that markets don't just go up, they can go sideways or even down. Every time it happens, so many seem surprised. But if you know what you are doing, bear markets are a great time to go shopping and help you get richer faster.

That being said, I always favor some diversification outside of equities such as real estate. True financial freedom comes from steady cash flow rather than having to ride the waves of the market. Hard to say "I won't eat this year" when the market drops.