12-06-2008, 02:47 AM
kj wrote:
[quote=SDGuy]
[quote=swampy]
Maybe there will be an up side to all this. Things like:
Learning to live within our means
Not trying to keep up with the Jones
Dinner around the kitchen table isn't so bad. (Mom really can cook when she has to)
Parents learn how to say no to their kids every desire.
Kids learn that money doesn't grow on trees.
There's nothing wrong with renting until you can afford to buy a house.
It's not necessary to have the latest and greatest.
There's no disgrace in getting a pair of shoes resoled.
What's funny is that all of the folks who are trying to save a dime on things like this consider their multi-line cell phone packages and their deluxe cable and broadband packages "must have" necessities.
I have to agree with all of that, with the possible exception of the last one. When I can get nice a brand new pair of shoes for $20 (on sale), it's not worth trying to retread them. No - I'm talking about sneakers. You just have to know where and when to shop. People who pay full price are suckers...
I'm not aware of too many people who live a modest lifestyle, so I have to say Swampy's idea that we've all become a little too comfortable seems pretty valid to me. Plus, if you're following the first thing on the list, you can't be falling behind. And, if things really get depressiony, the cheap sneakers aren't going to be so cheap. Although, like BL, I've never worn a pair of soles out before the upper wore out. kj.