Sara O'Rourke

The Positive Perspective



Posted: Tuesday, January 27, 2009

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It's about time I wrote something about the economic recession. I think, in a way, I was afraid of facing up to it, even in writing. I could be sure of no advice, distrust and doubt any comforting words, but finally realised that what I could offer was an alternative point of view of this global crisis. Terrible and life-destroying as it is and has been, believe it or not, I believe that this economic flux is going to have some positive effects on society.

From a commercial perspective, our predicament is going to put a nice, clean stop to our sprees and splurges. The vast majority will no longer be able to afford the Gucci, the tenth pair of sunglasses that match the paintwork on the convertable, but will have to make do with that which they already have and can afford. I think it will significantly tone down the commercial vibe of the high street, which will, in hopes, make people start to see each other for who they are, and not who they're wearing.

The financial situation will teach a lot of members of society about themselves. They will no longer be able to hide behind their purchases, but will be out there for all to see. More than this, I am confident that people will become more humble. Certain individuals ride too easily on the waves of life; gliding along without encountering a single hurdle along the way. This is everyone's hurdle.

We should start to appreciate our possessions as the western-world luxuries that they are. Having a car, even a house, is more than just a human right. There are so many people out there who don't have even a roof over their heads at night. Money cuts will help shift the angle of our outlook. It will act as a much-needed wake up call to reality.

So next time the anchorman tells you that everything is continually falling apart, and you worry about having bought a new television that weekend, take a minute to breathe and absorb everything around you. We cannot really change circumstances, what will be will be, as they say. But whatever you lose, look at what you've gained, what you've realised you've had all along; perhaps a loving family, a supportive group of lifelong friends, your health.
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Top-level comments on this article: (2 total)
» left by Teresa Ortiz
 3 years 2 days ago.
187 fans.
Hi Sara,
 
I second this notion. Great job, I do pray that people will come to see their value as a person by who loves them and who they love as a result of all this stuff.
» left by sue thom
from nj 3 years 2 days ago.
hi sara,
 
i can speak for myself that these past 2 years have been a total readjustment of funds due to divorce, and i have learned more than ever. humility is first, altruism towards those in the same, or worse shoes, and i found that i don't really need half the things i used to buy. i also saw how strong i was, and how i took care of business, and to have patience when things didn't happen when they had been promised.
 
so, i think you have a good perspective on what we can learn when the well is drying up.
 
thanks for sharing,
 
best regards,
 
sue
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