Don't tell me that your Gucci belt is too tight

This economic mess we're in just may be one of the greatest blessings in history.
The world is learning to live with less.

We are becoming smarter about money.

We are more cautious in how we spend.

We are more cautious about our investments.

We are even learning to put some money away in savings.

Private education, Christian Louboutin shoes, Maybachs, 8,000 square foot houses, Cristal for brunch, outdoor flat screen tv's by our pools. We are learning these are not necessary. Not bad things. Just not necessary.

We are spending more time together as families and friends. Camping vacations are increasing. Sales of Kraft macaroni and cheese are way up. We are adopting mutts from the pound versus buying pedigreed Cavalier Spaniels.

Those of us that live in the United States did and still live better than 99.9% of the people on this earth.

We are learning some common sense. That the role of government is to protect us from foreign enemies, provide local safety needs like police and fire, keep our roads paved, and help parents educate our children. We can't afford to research the sex lives of salamanders. (We have Barney Frank to observe and that's education enough on that topic.)

In California, parents and educators are working together to save jobs that have been cut by state budget shortfalls. This is how it's supposed to be. Parents and educators working together to get the kids what they need. Not Sacramento. Not Washington D.C.

Let's hope these lessons stick. That our younger generations learn the difference in nice to have and need to have. Even if this economy returns.

And speaking of that, wonder who is going to figure it out. It won't be government. Somebody is going to have to buy something new when there old one wears out. Like a car. Pants. Light bulb. Roof.

We won't see a return to an economy like 2007 for years. We are learning that houses, furniture, mattresses, cars, etc. have a much longer life span than we knew. The economy will start to turn when replacement needs kick in.

Here's to the basics of life.

Have a bologna sandwich and hand write a letter to an old friend today.