Feeling The Pinch

I have seen many news reports about the cost of living in recent weeks. There is no doubt that some will be very anxious about this, especially if you have a family. I only have me to worry about, and in addition, I have lived on a modest part-time wage since I left school, I have never been able to contemplate large expenditures, it’s been all about earning my bread and butter since I can remember. I have not wanted the things or the lifestyle this commercial world was thrusting under my nose. I have considered myself as just camping until a much better system comes along – one that does not allow for these sickening extremes of wealth and poverty.

But I am sure there are parents out there who have a much more difficult situation than I do. Bringing up children, food, clothing, transport, utility bills, rent….the list goes on…and the prices go up.

If you are feeling the pinch and becoming alarmed by increasing prices, please think shrewdly now. There are so many lessons we all need to learn about finances. There is a precious older generation who can impart great wisdom to us. Sometimes we have an excess of wages, and we can relax about these money saving tips. Other times, the excess disappears, and we are cutting it fine.

• Discern true needs from wants
• Use your food budget wisely – soups and casseroles with vegetables and grains are big money savers
• Don’t “window-shop” on websites for clothes, gadgets etc. It can make unnecessary expenditure become harder to resist, and can make you feel sorry for yourself
• Look after your clothes and furniture, and other costly items
• Opt for free forms of recreation – walking in nature spots
• Avoid debt and credit
• Do not gamble in any form

I know that when we were little ones there were some very tough times financially. But my parents always made sure we had what we needed. But I know there were times that due to a tight budget, my Mumma ate porridge, while seeing us little ones have more variety in our diet.

I believe it is said that money is the cause of most arguments between couples, and within families. I can see how stress levels would rise when money runs short. Being strictly careful about how you spend your money may be tiresome, but it can lesson anxiety. Love is priceless. There are people who possess a ridiculous amount of wealth and yet do not have genuine love. So please strengthen the bonds in your family. Love is a powerful motivator and can help you endure difficulties. Change is ahead, but while there are troubles around you, think about what you need to sustain life each day.

“Better is a dish of vegetables where there is love, than a fattened bull where there is hatred.”

PROVERBS 15:17

Advertisement