I heard an interesting thought the other day. It was that crisis reminds of us of what's important. For instance, when we're young and healthy we don't give much thought to tomorrow. But, when you're stuck in a hospital bed contemplating life and death, it's only natural that you try to focus your thoughts on what's really important. That's not the time to be thinking of trival stuff.
The same is true of our finances. When times are good we add all kinds of discretionary expenses. After all, we have the money. No reason that we shouldn't enjoy a little luxury. And is cableTV really a luxury?
But, when times are tough it's only natural to separate the things that you really need (i.e. shelter, food, immediate medical care, maybe transportation) from the things that simply aren't that important (i.e. entertainment, a fancier car, stylish clothing, etc).
And, that's a good thing. It's important for us to know which things have a high value to us. Otherwise we'll forget their value and just treat them as being unimportant. I
I need to be reminded that my family is more important than my stuff. That time with them is more important than television. That having a home is more important than what toys are in the garage or driveway.
So in a way I could say that hard times can be a blessing. If I let myself, I won't be distracted by the things that I dont' have. But, rather I'll place renewed importance on the things that I do have.
Keep on Stretching those Dollars!
Gary
