For Better Or Worse

 

We might as well assume and accept that things are going to get worse before they get better.  It really doesn’t matter who the president is these economical situations just take time to work themselves out.  The good news is that we’ve done it before and we made it through then, we’ll make it through this one too.

 

In hard times we tighten our belts, lower the thermostat, drive less, travel less, shop less, use the clothesline more, eat more soup, stretch and make do with what we already have.  We can glean, swap, barter, trade, work for and grow a lot of the things we need on a daily basis.  Often we can make what we need by recycling or repurposing something we already own.  For us crafters, we all have a stash of something we can work off of.  In essence we become more resourceful and we waste nothing.

 

Some of us have an extra room so we can take in boarders to bring in a little bit of money and share the expense of utilities.  Others of us work a part time job.  We can start a food or meal co-op where we all bring something we already have in our freezer or pantry and then leave with a variety of premade freezer meals.  Sometimes a trip to a food pantry can make all the difference and alleviate some uncertainty.

 

There are programs available to help with groceries, heating bills, medical and dental care.  Your area senior center is a great resource to aid in finding the help you need.  If you can give to or help others then by all means please do so.

 

Need some ideas on how to lower costs and save money?  There are countless bloggers and vloggers who love to share their ideas, knowledge and experience with others.  Google and Youtube are a great place to get started if you need to research a topic.  So is your public library.  Learn all you can.

 

Above all, recognize that we have limited control over the economy, but what we do have is a lot of control over how we navigate these particular times.  Maintaining a positive attitude while practicing gratitude and knowing that with all things, these situations are only temporary.  In the meantime do all you can to ease your life and make it comfortable.  With patience and good stewardship, better days are ahead.