To fear or not to fear

With the economy in the news (a pleasant switch from the tabloid campaign trash?) there is at least a chance for some conversations of substance. I'm reminded of the old adage that most advertisers used to use sex to sell nearly everything. . .now, the 'ticket' to selling seems to be selling on fear: fear of getting (or looking ) old; fear of aches and pains; fear of losing ones self-esteem (credit with your neighbors) this used to be called 'keeping up with the Joneses'. .peer pressure to consume. . fear of going broke before your die (insurance).

however. .now it is simply just keeping a roof over your head, or keeping the robbers away from your door (security systems, buy in a 'safe' neighborhood, better schools where your children might not have to be going to school with 'violent' people that are different from you). .
and now. .invest in where your money is SAFE. in a bank that is FDIC insured. .sure. .now they can't/won't/don't even want to claim that is a sure thing.

so. .what is the answer? keeping your dollars in a sock in the mattress. .maybe.
avoiding opulence and extravagance? sure
living within your means. .by all means. .
but when and how did we ever get away from those basic common sense ideas any way?
when did we allow our selves and children to think that to 'have' was the only way?

Frugal people are no longer seen as something to be admired. .until, perhaps times like this week.
those who have savings in the bank and don't have to fear for their job or their next meal.

was it instant gratification? TV? advertising?

One book I have quoted in the past "Emotional Intelligence" states that people who can understand that delayed gratification is something worth waiting for are more secure and less emotional/aggressive/violent people.
is that the same as maturity?
the school of tough knocks?

Many people who survived the "Great Depression" and every other financial downturn since recognize that politics and the economy really do go in cycles. .and the 'end is near'. .has never been the 'end' yet.
If one looks at the theological concepts here, it could be a lesson of prevention. .or motivation to change one's habits. Such transitions in life can provide the fodder for introspection deep enough to 'hit bottom' and make a U turn. .
Some people will just end up blaming the 'system' and others will learn from it and grow.
Hopefully, the lessons that are learned will be etched in peoples' memories and recorded in their journals so that they can share them with their children and grandchildren. and avoid having to experience similar painful situations in their future.

Such is life. .without fear. .when we know we have the power to overcome the adversities that are inherent what we call 'living'. LM

If you are intrigued by the topic of the woes of consumerism, check out www.thestoryofstuff.org