I asked a question on Facebook last week that generated some interesting thoughts and discussion:
How has the recession improved your life? Here are some responses:
- We tighten our belts and get creative!
- I have to be much more careful with how I spend. I combine errands so I don’t have to drive to town too often, clip coupons and look for the bargains.
- I think the way the recession has improved our lives I try to buy more at small businesses like farm stands and butchers and, of course, the Amish market in town. It may cost just a bit more in price but know that I am directly improving someones business it makes me feel good, not some big corporation. Most of the time the product is much better and lasts longer.
- Cooking more meals at home, including pizza. Waiting until I really need something and making a list before going shopping.
- I am learning to simplify. Going through closets, garage and shed, getting rid of *stuff*. Had a garage sale last weekend and made $500. Still going through things to have another one. Why do I have all this stuff? Sure was fun getting it.
- We have taken our “rose colored glasses off” and have realized we didn’t need to go out to dinner 3 times a week, we aren’t too good to use coupons and we have family fun night right in the comfort of our own living room..We take nature walks, ride bikes, go to the local farmers market. We find things that do not cost a lot of money to do and make the most out of them.
- We lost our home to foreclosure two years ago. I was one we had built and truly enjoyed. it was hard to lose it..but. I learned there is life after that and that we need to be thankful for what God gives us. A house is just that- a house, but a HOME is different and I can make MY home anywhere.
- I DO believe that we can learn how to improve our lives despite the recession. We can learn to appreciate the tremendous abundance we have — even when we don’t think we have.
What about you? How has the recession changed the quality of your life for good?
I’d love to hear your response. In fact, I’d like to offer a copy of “Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World” to someone who leaves a comment (chosen by a random counter thing) as a thank you! This giveaway will end by next Thursday night (October 7th).
