I had been wondering why there were so many car dealerships around town. I had often wondered who was buying all the cars. I knew it wasn't me. I have bought new cars, but only after the old cars were starting to cost me more time in the garage being fixed than on the road.
During this economic downturn I had been reading about how car sales were down, but so were all sales so the connection didn't hit me right away.
Then it hit me.
A recent newspaper article mentioned the loss of tax revenue some counties were facing because people weren't buying new cars, and taxes go down as cars age. Another article mentioned how mechanics were seeing an increase in business. Putting those two stories together, I came up with my answer.
Not only are we a throwaway nation of spouses, children, homes and gadgets, but we also throw away perfectly good cars! Now I understand why I have seen so many relatively new cars with tail lights out, smoke coming out of the tailpipes and squeaking fan belts. They were on their way to the trash bin. A new car was just over the horizon, so why bother to fix the old one? It didn't matter that the "old" one was only two years old.
This economic crisis is not President Obama's fault, Bush's fault, the fault of Congress or even AIG and Big Business. Look in the mirror. The real culprit will be staring back at you.
If we truly change our spending habits, by saving more and buying more with cash and less credit, the economy will adapt. It will take time and it will be painful -- change always is -- but we will come out a stronger nation and a better people. Aren't we worth it? Aren't our children and grandchildren worth it?
Arlene Candy
Martinez
Comments
We are being bombarded from every direction to be spend thrifts and irresponsible. It's on every t.v. show and is taught in our schools. All government programs teach us we'll be taken care of if we choose not to take care of our selves. Why learn to be frugal?
PT, because its the right thing to do. The road less traveled and all that. I take pride in knowing that my only major debt is my house, and that I saved enough to buy my dream car in cash. Sure it meant staying home some Friday nights, and not wearing fancy clothes. But my financial future is secure, and as long as idiots don't park in front of my house blasting the bass, I sleep soundly knowing I try to do the right thing.
The easy answer to keep from being indoctrinated.. turn off the tube, pick up a book. Take all words from teachers with a grain of salt, or challenge their opinions with an alternative viewpoint (loved doing that in college)
An excellent letter and excellent comments from some very bright folks. Sounds like someone might have gone to a Dave Ramsey class. I made some comments on the medical records article and they seem to apply here too........We have made medical care far too complicated from insurance, privacy, record keeping etc. It is becoming like school and the "main thing" is no longer the "main thing". All these type problems will be fixed an individuals become more involved in the outcome of their own lives. This is done through self-education. You see this in home schooling, online learning, alternative health care, self taught health care, raising your own food, repairing your own products, creating your own electricity etc. Stay teachable and productive everyday. Cut off the TV and let the rest of the world become socialistic and dependent on the "village" to care for them while you have the joy and peace of an independent life only needing the leadereship of the Holy Spirit.
Soldout, I think you are heading in the right direction in saving for your future but I would leave the medical and health care to professionals. I sleep very well at night knowing I have saved all my working life and I believe I can live in comford the rest of my life without depending on the government. dhd1108, PT was being sarcastic. She doesn't mean that literally.
Good work WW1948; I have spent over 30 years studying alternative care and observing medical care as a hobby. So far everything I have told people medically has been turned out for their good. It is only that way because I study the research, know some good doctors who I trust and always "follow the money." Any view I give that sounds extreme I just say give it ten years and the test of time. I also know anything that doesn't agree with the Bible will fail and also that the majority thinking is usually wrong. That approach hasn't failed me in relationships, health, or investing.
Man, you need a new hobby
What can be better than a hobby that pleases me and helps others and makes their life easier. God has made life so simple that we have to hire help to mis-understand.
We are all urged by advertising to spend more, but smart people do not spend all their money anyway. People look at those who are doing well in life and think it is because they have a lot of money or inherited a lot of money. But the real answer is frugality. If people are smart, they will always look for the best deal possible. In 2003 I purchased a 2001 model used car that still had the factory warranty and paid thousands less than if I had purchased it brand new. In 2007, I traded this car and bought a 2005 model luxury car that only had 29000 miles and factory warranty still on it. I paid way less than the car cost new and it still looks brand new inside and out. I have purchased four business suits at an outlet mall north of here and paid for all four what one costs around Augusta. I shop the internet for auto insurance, you will be surprised what good deals you can find. The secret to a good deal is to always look for quality at a good price. Never buy junk just because it is cheaper. And use cash whenever possible, look at credit as a luxury, not a necessity.
Children are taught to be spendthrifts in school? Would that be before or after they are supposedly indoctrinated about homosexuality? PT, where on earth do you get your bizarre ideas about what is taught in schools?
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