Risk is still high

I contribute $500 per money from 1993 to 2000,and $1000 per month from 2001 to now in TIAA-CREF. These money are allocated in 5 funds. My total contribution is $130,100. My balance now is $98600.I rarely made exchange. Every one knows investing is a"long term" reward. Dollar cost is a good way to against market up and down. Is 16 years long enough? In my point of view,
401, 403 or IRA account are all cheating. you can't really rely on them for your retirement life.