Susan writes: What will happen with our economy this bad? Considering your knowledge, I was hoping you may be able to shed some light on the subject. A little advice would go a long way.
The Survival Mom:
I’m glad you found my blog and hope that it’s helped you or, at least, entertains you!
I don’t know what your specific concerns are regarding our economy, and I do not have a degree in economics, but I am not too optimistic about the near future.
Some people say we are in a second Depression. If you go with that train of thought, it’s worrisome because during the Great Depression, there were still many millions of Americans who either lived on farms or were just a generation away from rural farm life. In other words, most Americans at that time were already living lives of self-sufficiency, and the idea of government assistance was a foreign one. Great-grandma knew how to can, make jam, farm, raise chickens, bake awesome homemade pies, quilt, darn socks, and much more! Now, most Americans live in large towns and cities, and we’re a long way from having the skills and knowledge that helped our grandparents and great-grandparents survive the Great Depression.
The gold standard was still in operation during the Great Depression. Theoretically, you could take your cash to a bank and exchange it for gold. The dollar was worth something tangible. That standard was abolished many years ago, and earlier this year, our federal government began printing out trillions of dollars in “new money”. Wow! Didn’t know you could do that, but apparently, they can. Shortly, our country will be awash in all this newly printed money that is really not much different than what you would print out from your computer! This will damage the value of our already-hurting dollar and possibly lead to inflation.
Add to this, the amount of money our new administration is spending. In just six months, they have spent more money than all other administrations combined. Yes, from the days of George Washington through George W. Bush! This is a tremendous debt that we, our children, and grandchildren can never repay! It’s just common sense that this massive spending will dig a deeper and deeper hole for American workers.
Then, there’s the housing market, barely surviving on life-support, neighborhood banks locking their doors, unemployment numbers that boggle the mind, and …hold on while I find my bottle of Prozac!
Here is what we have going for us, though, Susan. We SurvivalMoms are made of some pretty darn, strong stuff, and we’re passionate about our families. We never underestimate the power of prayer and faith in God. That’s a potent combination.
I have to admit there are some pretty scary scenarios out on the horizon. That’s why, on my blog, I encourage activity and knowledge. If you’re trying to save money, pay off debt, and stockpile food and supplies, to whatever levels you can, that activity alone gives hope. Learning new skills of self-sufficiency and keeping track of current events are just as empowering.
I can tell you what’s not empowering: denial. We can’t afford to go there, nor can we afford to wallow in panic and fear. Making a plan, taking action, focusing on all that is good will help you get through difficult days.
Our economy isn’t in a free-fall yet, and it may never be. While there is still time, prepare, and encourage your friends and family to do the same. This is a great solution for the short-term in case of a loss of income, and for the long-term, in case our economic woes last years rather than months.
I don’t believe our situation is hopeless. Most of us may have been living pretty soft lives, but inside we’re still very, very strong, and as women, we’re incredibly resourceful and creative. Just the fact that you’re seeking out online resources like my blog, says that you are determined to help your family not just survive, but thrive. Please get back in touch with me, Susan, and let me know how you’re doing, and thank you so much for contacting me. I’m honored.
|
|