Tell 'Em No

I've been thinking about this economic crisis lately. I've come to the conclusion that many, many people don't want to be told they can't afford something. We need to learn that there are just some things we cannot afford. We need to be told no. We need to tell ourselves no. And for heaven's sake, let's tell our kids no every once in awhile.

I heard a phrase several years ago that I think is appropriate for the day: "delayed gratification."

We won't save now to pay cash for later; no, we will use credit to buy now and pay over time. Or in many cases, we'll run up a bill and not pay at all. No wonder we are where we are.

I'm guilty. But I'm working on it. Are you?