Time to Keep it Simple

(Written in early 2022)

I hope I'm wrong, but I have a feeling the economy is about to get a lot worse. I feel like we need to hunker down and look at things a little differently for a while.

We will need to work hard on steering our thoughts toward gratitude. We will need to adjust our perspectives on wants versus needs. We will need to look for those who need help. They aren't always advertising their needs.

We will need to laugh with family. We will need to find joy in places other than the front stoop full of Amazon packages. Not forever, but for a while.

We need to take a fresh look at the clothes we already have instead of replacing so much every season. We need to shop for fun things at thrift shops. It's surprising what you can find there!

We need to shop local establishments whenever possible. We'll need to eat at home more. Give smaller, meaningful gifts. No one will think less of you. Would you think less of anyone?

We will need to find our peaceful place to retreat to in the storm that's coming. We will need to be diligent about avoiding blame and anger with our loved ones when it's scary and uncomfortable. We need to team up.

Nothing lasts forever, and the pendulum will keep swinging. It's not a hopeless situation, but it calls for a different mindset. At least for a while.

(These are some thoughts I've been having, and this is my advice to myself. If anyone else gets anything out of it, you're welcome. )