Life aint fair

[DivaJen]

Re: Life aint fair

My philosophy is usually that you never know the whole story. Maybe people who have everything are deeply in debt. Maybe a relative just died and left them a bunch of money. Maybe they have different priorities.

I agree, and I think this is good to keep in mind. Some friends of ours owned a house outright, but it was because his father had died and they inherited money. I know my friend would rather be in debt with a mortgage and still get to see his father.

[ofekslayer]

Re: Life aint fair

The easiest thing in the world would be to get envy at the neighbors’ next doors. I know that myself. Until a while ago, I was also very jealous of my next door neighbor, who has a fancy house, 3 cars, fancy designer clothes, while I ride a bicycle, my clothes are second hand, and I live in an apartment. Envy was consuming my life, and at night that was the only thing I could think about. A book I read changed my life, and a movie I saw, made me look at things in a different perspective. The movie isn't all that good really, it's a comedy with Jack Black and Ben Stiller, but it shows what envy does to people. Doesn't hurt to watch it.
The book on the other hand, is a serious book, a must book to every person, envy or not. It is called "Overcoming Jealousy and Possessiveness"

Hope my recommendations help you change yourself, to be a better person.
Good Luck!

[srace]

Re: Life aint fair

I agree don't let the Joneses get to you. They may be so much in debt that no matter how hard they work at it they will never get out.

[CRFSaver]

Re: Life aint fair

Peace of mind is more important to me then a nice car. I could afford a real nice one if I wanted. But when I got laid off in California, I didnt work for 7 months. I didnt change my lifestyle. I didnt change how I ate. But because I had money socked away I was able to look for the right job and not sacrifice too much.

I also took a year off after grad school. I would have never been able to do that with a 400 dollar a month car payment. When my car finally does die I am sure I will get a nice car (really like the acura TL's), but right now every month I put away 250 dollars that would have gone for a theoretical car payment. and with only 75k miles i should be able to save up a decent downpayment.

Have you all seen the commercial with the guy who has a big grin talking about allt he things he has. New house, new cars, golf club membership. Then the kicker. He asks, how do I afford it all? I am in debt up to my ears. I can barely make my interest payments.

Just remember that commercial when you see that.