With the economy in the tank and so many people losing their jobs and homes, the current state of affairs in this country has taught me several lessons. For starters, I have learned that no one is immune to financial crisis and unemployment. Despite having a graduate degree, finding a job has proven close to impossible for me. I could get a job working at a convenience store or mall, but I would only make a little more than minimum wage, on which I would not be able to support a family or pay back those dreadful student loans.
This recession has taught me to appreciate how well we have it in this country. Granted, pulling up to the gas station and only being allowed to put $40 in my tank has been frustrating, but I will never take getting gas for granted again.
I have learned the importance of saving money more than consuming. I now have more debt than I can pay, and without a decent paying job, this has put a huge strain on my family. When the economy turns around for the better, and it will, I plan on saving more than I spend because we’ll never know if we’ll end up in the same predicament years later.
The country is in such turmoil right now, but I am optimistic that things will get better. Either way, the recession has taught me to be more frugal and to never take things for granted.
