Too blessed to be Stressed (despite the economic upheaval)

October 22nd, 2008 at 03:18pm Dyanna Chandler

I have enjoyed my tenure as a member of the voters’  panel and will truly miss the interaction with my fellow panel members.  One of the questions posed at our last meeting was, “How is the rough economy hitting you personally?” I am sharing my response with you and trust that will it encourage others faced with a similar situation.  I have always tried to live a frugal, “no frills” lifestyle.  I prepare meals from “scratch” and garden vegetables, avoiding the costly pre packed items.  I had a retirement fund which I believed would sustain me through my senior years.  With fatal and swift irresponsible actions by Wall Street - it was gone. 

I am now in a financial situation where I am seeking substantive employment.  My college degree, unfortunately, is in a concentration where there are nationwide layoffs, workforce reductions and early retirement “buyouts”. I must now “re-tool” for another occupation. I have eliminated all luxuries, i.e. subscription to the daily newspaper, eating out on Sundays, clothing purchases, attending the RSO (Rockford Symphony Orchestra), book purchases, and my food purchases are basic and minimal. I only attend social events and outings which are at no cost.

Despite this, I consider myself a blessed individual because I have overcome three bouts with cancer, have a adult child who is healthy, succeeding in her career and advanced degree academic pursuits.  Blessed also because I live in one of the best countries on earth. I am looking forward with a positive attitude about my future and the future of our country, never backward because I know where my strength lies.  I am here by grace, a true survivor.  I encourage each of you to look to the future with optimism because our present situation is only a bump in the road; the journey will improve if we faint not.

 

 Dyanna Chandler

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