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I struggle with the uneven path of finances like a great percentage of the population does.

I live from paycheck to paycheck and have learned how to stretch each dollar into three.

There are periods in my life when I seem to have more than enough money and am able to relax; not concerned about how I’m going to pay my bills. But there have been other times when I’ve had to take a little from Peter to pay Paul, so that I could come up with my rent.

I’ve become a financial juggler.

Yet to be perfectly honest with you, this is how I’ve lived most of my life so I’m used to it, because I have always been drawn to professions that are not considered 'stable' when it comes to making money. But for as unstable as they can be at times, I like the freedom they give me to not conform to any set schedule.

As I kid, I was told to select a career that would give me security and longevity, so I would have a guarantee that my job would always be in demand.

Well guess what? In today’s world and economy, no one has a 100% guarantee with their jobs. I’ve heard countless stories of people who have worked over 25 years for a company, yet they were let go without so much as a two week notice. They were suddenly banished as if they never existed.

So, as unsettling as my career choices have been throughout my life, they have given me the perfect training that I will never be secure in ANY job.

This brings me to the topic of my post.

Feeling wealthy.

Before going on, I would like to share that many people have told me that because I’m single, I have it easier because I only have myself to worry about. True, I only have myself to worry about, but that also means I only have myself to support myself. I don’t have a partner who I can share expenses with. All my bills are paid by me.

There are also a lot of single mothers and fathers, who in addition, have children to support. Therefore, it’s an even bigger challenge for them.

So it’s not any easier being single.

Through all the ups and downs of my careers and financial status, I’ve learned something.

Even in the lowest times of struggle and worry, I have always been wealthy.

My finances will vacillate because that’s just how life is. But that doesn’t define my true sense of wealth.

The first thing most of us do when we hit a low in our finances is that we end up getting depressed about our lives, which makes us go deeper into a dark funk because we feel like we’re never going to pull out of it, which in turn makes us feel even LESS wealthy.

Also, struggling with finances makes us feel scared because we’re so vulnerable; not knowing where the money is going to come from.

And trust me, I’ve been there; not even knowing if I would have enough money left over to buy food.

But as corny as this may sound, I’ve had to closely examine myself in times of financial struggle and FIND the wealth in my life. The wealth that is always there. In spite of how financially secure I was.

The thing that helped me most during those times was to focus my attention on the things in my life for which I had to be grateful, because somehow it filled me with confidence and hope that things would turn around. And ironically, they did. And they always have.

For me, even at times when I'm struggling financially, if I can sustain some sort of creativity in my life, whether it be photography, writing on my blog, or learning something new, it gives me a sense of wealth. Because it keeps me passionate about my life.

We currently live at time in which financial security is about as certain as to whether Santa Claus exists.

Hence, I choose to feel wealthy.

Regardless.


Happy Monday everyone!

60 comments:

  1. Good for you Ron!!! BRAVO!! This is a very good bit of wisdom for everyone to follow. I have been on the other side too...a single mom raising my daughter...divorced when she was only five. It was tough going!! But I maintained my sanity and just did the whole day to day thing that you describe. We managed. Hey Ron, I have been meaning to ask you...if you don't mind would you please send me your email address?? You can send it to jpursell (at) rochester (dot) rr (dot) com Just have a question for you and I'd rather not leave it here. Thanks!! Happy Monday my friend!! Let's hope for sunshine!! xo Jeanne

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  2. I totally agree. I made a deliberate decision to work with a poor population even though I knew it meant I would make a whole lot less money, but I believe wealth doesn't come in the form of cash or material possessions.


    I do find that being single is a much scarier proposition than being in a couple, for the very reason you mentioned of having no one to rely on. I am thankful that even though I'm a single parent, the kids have an employed father who would never let them go without if something happened to my ability to earn a living. Still, it's hard to keep up a household for the three of us. But that's life. We're happy and isn't that what matters?

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  3. That is a very positive attitude, Ron! One of my pet peeves is the way so many people act as though they are broke, but in reality, they have every technological gadget known to man, drive a gas guzzler, and eat out more meals than they eat in. Drives me nuts!

    And then there are people like you who are the exact opposite of that, by realizing that wht you do have makes you wealthy....and it's not the material things. You are very rich, my friend. Have a great Monday!

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  4. You have a great outlook on life and wealth Ron, good for you. We have never been 'rich' but have always managed and, strangely, whenever we have needed extra money for an unforseen expense 'something' has always turned up. Now, in retirement, we have enough for day to day expenses and thankfully, through careful investment over the years, have enough to be able to travel.We are very lucky. :)

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  5. Thanks for writing this most excellent post, Ron.

    We live in an ugly, dog-eat-dog age, where success is judged entirely upon the size of one's bank account and loyal years of service to a company mean absolutely nothing.

    I've gone through some tough financial times and I've slipped deeper into that dark funk you describe.



    I'm glad you are able to see what true wealth really is. Living with passion will bring a special kind of wealth that no one will ever be able to take away from you.


    Thanks again, buddy, and do take care!

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  6. Bravo! Few people realize true wealth as little to do with money!

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  7. Good morning Jeanne~

    "I have been on the other side too...a single mom raising my daughter...divorced when she was only five. It was tough going!!"

    Yes, I can only imagine what a tough going that was because as I shared, to be single parent (mom or dad) you have the additional challenge of your children to support.

    " But I maintained my sanity and just did the whole day to day thing that you describe. We managed."



    Brava! You GO, Wonder Woman!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Hope your hubby is feeling better! Have a grrrrrreat week!


    X to you and the girlz!


    P.S. yes, I will send you my email address this morning.

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  8. Hey there Secret Agent Woman~

    " I made a deliberate decision to work with a poor population even though I knew it meant I would make a whole lot less money, but I believe wealth doesn't come in the form of cash or material possessions."

    And I so much admire you for that because you're doing what you LOVE to do and feel passionate about, therefore, your WEALTHY!

    "I am thankful that even though I'm a single parent, the kids have an employed father who would never let them go without if something happened to my ability to earn a living. Still, it's hard to keep up a household for the three of us."



    I'm so happy to hear that. But you're right...I know it must be hard to keep up a household for you and your children. Yet, from knowing you through your blog, you do an AWESOME job. Brava!


    Thanks so much for stopping by and have a terrific week!


    X

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  9. Hey there Bijoux~

    "One of my pet peeves is the way so many people act as though they are broke, but in reality, they have every technological gadget known to man, drive a gas guzzler, and eat out more meals than they eat in. Drives me nuts!"



    I so hear ya on that because I see the same thing. People who have all the latest gadgets, yet their bills go unpaid.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Wishing you an awesome week!


    X

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  10. Good morning Pearl~

    "We have never been 'rich' but have always managed and, strangely, whenever we have needed extra money for an unforseen expense 'something' has always turned up."

    Yup, it's the same for me. It's seems that whenever something unseen comes up, I end up getting the extra money somehow. Almost like Divine intervention. And for that, I am utterly grateful.

    " Now, in retirement, we have enough for day to day expenses and thankfully, through careful investment over the years, have enough to be able to travel.We are very lucky. :)"



    Good for you! And yes, you are very blessed indeed. And I'm so glad because I LOVE reading about your travels!


    Have a lovely week, m'dear. And thanks for stopping by!


    X

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  11. Hey there Ronnie,

    Put it there, bro; birds of a feather, think together... Wonderful :)
    It sounds like you have done reading on the power of attraction. Because when you think in a "poor me" trap, you cultivate poverty(esp emotional poverty but why not, the rest too!
    Daily affirmations are also great for creating a positive outlook.

    You are on the right path, hon. Be grateful for every little treasure. Many times for me, it is just the first hot cup of tea in the morning or something ordinary that we forget to give thanks for ( the people that drove the mass transit vheicles to get me in town & back home safely today).
    Keep it up, sweetie. You are my star.
    xoxoxo

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  12. Hey there Rob~

    "We live in an ugly, dog-eat-dog age, where success is judged entirely upon the size of one's bank account and loyal years of service to a company mean absolutely nothing."

    You said it. In fact, I just heard a story from one of my customers about a man she works with who was just recently let go from his job with only a day notice, and who worked for this company for twenty-something years. He was devastated.

    " Living with passion will bring a special kind of wealth that no one will ever be able to take away from you."



    AMEN!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Have a most EXCELLENT week! And say Hi to NYC for me!


    X

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  13. Hey there Suzi~


    It's taken me going through a lot up and downs to realize that.


    Thanks for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaaabulous week!


    X

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  14. Bonjour Barb~

    "It sounds like you have done reading on the power of attraction. Because when you think in a "poor me" trap, you cultivate poverty(esp emotional poverty but why not, the rest too!"

    You nailed it by saying "emotional poverty" because that's the key. I know many people who are wealthy, yet they still feel emotionally poor.

    "Daily affirmations are also great for creating a positive outlook."

    I agree. Whenever I've gone through tough times (or even times when everything is going well), I find taking a walk in the park and just quietly reminding myself of all the wonderful things I have in my life, and saying "Thank you", makes me feel incredibly blessed.

    "Many times for me, it is just the first hot cup of tea in the morning or something ordinary that we forget to give thanks for ( the people that drove the mass transit vheicles to get me in town & back home safely today)."



    Thank you. And I TOTALLY agree. It's those ordinary things that will often bring me the biggest feelings of gratitude.


    Thanks a bunch for stopping by and sharing your insight on this post. You've added much! Have a WONDERFUL week!


    X to you and D!


    XOXOXO

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  15. well done
    love ya
    hugs from me and Hope

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  16. Hey there Lady Dianne!


    (((((( You ))))))


    Love ya too, dear lady!


    Hugs to you and Hope and Siren and Isadora!


    Thanks for stopping by! Have a faaaaaabulous week!


    X

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  17. Ron, what an uplifting and inspiring post! Wealth is a state of mind because I have a girlfriend who has more money than God, and yet she is truly one of the most unhappy individuals I know. So it's not the amount of money that makes someone feel wealthy, it's something deeper.

    Gratitude.


    I think I'll have my girlfriend read this post.

    Love the photo of the frog. He's so cute! Have a wonderful week, Ron.

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  18. 'many people have told me that because I’m single, I have it easier because I only have myself to worry about.'

    Those people were obviously not single. I've been down the route of single + a half (baby) with an ex- hubby who refused to maintain us . The half couldn't help with finances so I was on my own. It's no joke but I got away with not feeling too down by remembering how fortunate I was to have a son to work for and tomorrow was always another day. One door closes and another opens, that sort of thing. But still I guess there are people out there who can't see a way out. If only they could stop and count blessings. I admire your strength of mind, Ron. You have an ability to look beyond, which is marvellous. Well done (((You))).

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  19. FIrst of all--I adore you for saying what's true for you. I think we grew up in an era when talking about money and finances was a very taboo thing. You just....carried on and did what you had to do...and kept up appearances for the rest of the world. Or maybe that was just my family--dunno... I still find finances a very difficult thing to put on the table for discussion with anyone. And I mean anyone. Even the person I share my life with.


    That being said, much like Secret Agent Woman--I opted for a lifetime mission instead of chasing a practice that would have brought me a greater paycheck. Truthfully, there are moments I bemoan that decision--private practice does pay differently than non-profit organizations-- And THEN the Big Guy whaps me and says 'get over it?'. LOL "Oh yes.....wealth beyond our dreams"...tyvm! LOL I do eventually (in rather short order nowadays) pull myself up by the boot straps and look around.
    I am one of the wealthiest people I know.
    I've ALWAYS been so very well taken care of. ALWAYS. Much like you--somehow, someway......it ends up 'okay'. Usually MORE than 'okay', truth be told.
    (Now, I know how *I* believe that happens...the Big Guy loves me beyond measure--even if I DO require an occasional whap along side the head...LOL)
    Even now--three months of sitting around, staring at a stupid leg that's healing but an imposition( LOL)--I'm sooooo graced. I've been emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially taken care of during this time....whining shouldn't be an option. (of course I whine anyway!) But once again......it's all good. NOT because it's me needing to 'keep up appearances' and be a good spokesperson for the Big Guy.....it really IS all good.


    We're graced folks, yaknow. And judging from some of the comments here--kindred graced folks abound here.
    Isn't it amazing?


    So--this morning I'll make bubbles!
    (well, I was gonna anyway--before I read here...LOL) But I'll make bubbles AND have a joyful, happy moment of gratitude.
    Cuz I can.
    I'm a wealthy gal!


    (((((((((( Ron ))))))))))))

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  20. Hola Denise

    " I have a girlfriend who has more money than God, and yet she is truly one of the most unhappy individuals I know. So it's not the amount of money that makes someone feel wealthy, it's something deeper.

    Gratitude."



    You are so right. While visiting my family last year, I met a friend of my mothers who is extremely wealthy, yet there was such a tremendous sadness about her. She's a very lovely lady (and a very giving person), however she seemed so lonely.


    Isn't the frog photo cute? My brother sent me that in an email months ago, so I decided to use it. I don't know who the photographer is, but it's an AWESOME shot!


    Thanks for stopping by, girl. Have a wonderful week too!


    X

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  21. Ron, you've expressed this beautifully!! I, too, thrive on the "meat one day, feathers the next" type of existence. I learned it from my dad, who also worked for himself. Sometimes it's great, sometimes not -- but always it's great having freedom, independence, and self-reliance!

    "Even in the lowest times of struggle and worry, I have always been wealthy." YES!! True wealth isn't determined by our bank account or our 401K. True wealth is found inside. We can feel wealthy because we're grateful for who we are and the blessings we've been given.


    Creative persons have to train themselves to pinch pennies and to live within their means. Not bad lessons for everyone, actually!

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  22. Gooood morning Valerie~

    I freakin' LOVE the passion in which you expressed your comment!!!!!

    " I've been down the route of single + a half (baby) with an ex- hubby who refused to maintain us . The half couldn't help with finances so I was on my own. It's no joke but I got away with not feeling too down by remembering how fortunate I was to have a son to work for and tomorrow was always another day."

    AAAAAAAAAAAAMEN!!!!!!! You took a situation and turned it around by discovering the wealth/blessings in your life and it DID turn around!

    "But still I guess there are people out there who can't see a way out. If only they could stop and count blessings."



    True. And I think I learned that by going through financial bankruptcy years ago, and was forced to stop and count my blessings because I had no other choice.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing on this post, dear lady. Thank you!


    Have a fantabulous week!


    X

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  23. Good morning Debbie!

    " I, too, thrive on the "meat one day, feathers the next" type of existence. I learned it from my dad, who also worked for himself. Sometimes it's great, sometimes not -- but always it's great having freedom, independence, and self-reliance!"

    I couldn't have said that any better than you just did. DITTO!

    And I think it's the people who choose these types of careers (self-employed or independent contractors) are the ones who have a bit more understanding of the ebb and flow of how finances can be at times. And for me, I would rather have my freedom and independence than be constricted to a form. Even if it means not knowing what the future holds for me.

    It's as you shared....

    "Creative persons have to train themselves to pinch pennies and to live within their means. Not bad lessons for everyone, actually!"



    Amen!


    Always fab seeing ya, Debbie! Much thanks for stopping by.


    Have a super week......X

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  24. Hiya Mel~

    " I think we grew up in an era when talking about money and finances was a very taboo thing."

    Yes, we did. It was almost as taboo as talking about SEX - HA!

    "Truthfully, there are moments I bemoan that decision--private practice does pay differently than non-profit organizations-- And THEN the Big Guy whaps me and says 'get over it?'. LOL "Oh yes.....wealth beyond our dreams"...tyvm! LOL I do eventually (in rather short order nowadays) pull myself up by the boot straps and look around.I am one of the wealthiest people I know."

    Brava, dear lady! And I can tell, just from the way you've described how much you enjoy your work on your blog, that you have a PASSION for it. It was the same for me when I was acting. I didn't make a whole hell of money, but I LOVED it!

    "Even now--three months of sitting around, staring at a stupid leg that's healing but an imposition( LOL)--I'm sooooo graced. I've been emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially taken care of during this time....whining shouldn't be an option. (of course I whine anyway!) But once again......it's all good. NOT because it's me needing to 'keep up appearances' and be a good spokesperson for the Big Guy.....it really IS all good."

    Watching you move this has been such a joy and celebration because I can see/read that you've taken the time to 'examine' yourself and have greatly learned from this experience.

    Hence....it really IS all good!

    (((((((((( You ))))))))))

    "We're graced folks, yaknow. And judging from some of the comments here--kindred graced folks abound here.Isn't it amazing?"



    It sure is, Mel!


    Thanks oddles and oodle for stopping by and sharing on this post, dear lady. You've added much!


    Have a faaaaaaaabulous morning making BUBBLES!!!!!!


    "If I were a rich man....laalalalalalala!"


    X ya!

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  25. Great post Ron! It's great to be able to listen to you every week through this blog. Love and miss ya!

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  26. Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay Laurel!!!!!!


    *jumping up and down*


    It was such a joy to see your comment! Thanks a bunch for stopping by and saying Hi!


    And thanks for reading my blog :)


    Hope all is well in Orlando!


    X and miss ya too!

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  27. ...What is that saying? Something along the lines of, "the happiest people don't have everything they want, they're just happy with what they have". [shrug] Something like that. You hit the nail on the head here today. So, so many people need to read this, and read it often. :o)

    ...This is such a great post Ron! You're so insightful, yet funny touched by a bit o' edginess. I like that. [giggle]



    ...You're such a 'people person' that I can't imagine you in any other profession. It even resonates thru your blog, you're radiant! ;o)


    ...I signed up to receive your posts via email and while I like that I don't ever miss a post, I miss visiting.


    ...Have a glorious week dear friend!


    ...(((you)))


    ...Blessings too. :o)

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  28. Nicely stated. True happiness doesn't come from financial wealth (although having the means does make parts of life easier!). Too many people are never happy, regardless of how much wealth they have. On the flip side, there are so many who don't have a pot to.....well, they don't have much, yet put their happiness in the intangibles of life. Wealth, or lack thereof, will always cause struggles in our culture. Funny thing is, when you compare the "poor" in this country, you find they are better off than the poor in other countries....and sometimes they're better off than the rich in some of those countries as well!! It's all a matter of perspective.

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  29. Financially speaking, being single sucks. There is a lot to be said for having two incomes...I feel like I'm finally able to breathe for the first time in a couple of years. Whew!


    Like you, living paycheck to paycheck is pretty much all I'm used to - most of my working life. I probably could put "juggler" on my resume and get away with it!

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  30. Hellooooooooo TJ!!!!!

    " "the happiest people don't have everything they want, they're just happy with what they have".

    WOW...I've never heard that saying, but I LOVE it! And I totally agree. I live a very simple life because I don't like a lot of "stuff" around. To me, less is more, because it frees up my time to enjoy the things that bring me happiness.

    "...You're such a 'people person' that I can't imagine you in any other profession. It even resonates thru your blog, you're radiant! ;o)"

    ((((((((( You )))))))

    Thank you, you're a sweetheart!

    I guess I am a people person, but I also enjoy quiet time away from people. My little studio apartment is my haven of peace when I come home at night, from working around the public all day. I need that to balance and restore myself.

    "...I signed up to receive your posts via email and while I like that I don't ever miss a post, I miss visiting."



    I have a lot friends, here in Philly and in Florida, who also read my blog via email rather than through a reader. And like you, the stop by whenever they feel like it, to leave a comment. I always want my readers to feel relaxed about commenting on my blog because sometimes people wish to comment and then other times they simply want to read. And that's a-okay by me.


    Much thanks for stopping by today, dear lady. Have a glorious week!


    (((((((( You )))))))


    X ya!


    P.S. hope you're feeling better.

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  31. Hey there Lisa!

    " True happiness doesn't come from financial wealth (although having the means does make parts of life easier!)."

    Absolutely, I agree...having the means DOES make parts of life easier.

    " Wealth, or lack thereof, will always cause struggles in our culture. Funny thing is, when you compare the "poor" in this country, you find they are better off than the poor in other countries....and sometimes they're better off than the rich in some of those countries as well!! It's all a matter of perspective."



    I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how you said that!!!!!


    You're spot on! It's all a matter of PERSPECTIVE!


    Thanks so much for stopping by and adding your thoughts and insight to this post topic. Muchly appreciated!


    Have a lovely week!


    X

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  32. Howdy Mark~

    " There is a lot to be said for having two incomes...I feel like I'm finally able to breathe for the first time in a couple of years. Whew!"


    That's awesome! And on top of that....you're engaged to the woman you love!

    "Like you, living paycheck to paycheck is pretty much all I'm used to - most of my working life. I probably could put "juggler" on my resume and get away with it!"

    HAHAHAHAHAHAAHA! I should put that on my resume as well!!!!



    Thanks for stopping by, buddy. Have a faaaaaaabulous week!


    X to you and Tara!

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  33. The truth is, some of us are happy to live like you and some just can't. They need to have the security of a regular income and stay in one job for as long as they can. I have never been one of those people either. Feeling like I needed more than a 9 to 5 job, at the age of 35 I left work, and went to college for a year as a full time student, living on a small grant. Then I chose to go self employed as a graphic designer.

    Once self employed, money ebbed and flowed, but by then everyone was suffering, with the world-wide financial problems. Nobody was secure. At least I had the opportunities of getting more work while others were lining up in the dole queue.

    Did I get rich? No, not financially, but I so agree with you. I have many other riches, one of them being a sense of achievement (however small), that I made it through and I did it by making my own decisions. Some right and some wrong, but they were mine.

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  34. i can feel you on this one ron. you've said a mouth full. i was debtfree once upon a time, but i am not now. it's tough out here, married or single and i had to do some serious downsizing because nothing (stuff/home/neighborhood/status) is more important to me than the peace of being debt free. i do have support and help, but my hand is never out. to know they are there helps, so i don't worry too much about things and finances. i always feel money can be made again and that is not what makes me rich. like you, i am rich in many other ways.

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  35. Hey there Babs~

    "Once self employed, money ebbed and flowed, but by then everyone was suffering, with the world-wide financial problems. Nobody was secure. At least I had the opportunities of getting more work while others were lining up in the dole queue."

    Exactly! And that's the way I feel as well. My job will often ebb and flow with hour availability, depending upon the budget my company has to work with each season, but I always seem to get sufficient hours. Each year though, the budget gets tighter and tighter because of the economy. But so far, things have worked out for me. And I am sooooooo grateful because I love my job and get paid for doing it. But I also realize that my job could be axed at any moment.

    " I have many other riches, one of them being a sense of achievement (however small), that I made it through and I did it by making my own decisions. Some right and some wrong, but they were mine."

    AMEN!!!!!! You GO, girl!

    Thanks for stopping by and sharing on this post topic, Babs. You've added much!

    X to you and Mo!

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  36. Hey there V Girl~

    "it's tough out here, married or single and i had to do some serious downsizing because nothing (stuff/home/neighborhood/status) is more important to me than the peace of being debt free."

    You said it, girl. I'm the same way, nothing is more important to me than paying my bills FIRST. I too have had to downsize at times, but I would rather do that than have my debt accumulate to the point of not being able to make my monthly dues.

    " i always feel money can be made again and that is not what makes me rich. like you, i am rich in many other ways."



    LOVE it! And girl, did you say a mouth full in that!


    Thanks for stopping, Val. Hope you had a great Monday!

    X

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  37. You have an excellent attitude about money and wealth!
    Since I've never had a career, I do have some issues with money. lol We're doing okay since Ron has always made enough to cover our basic expenses and we live within our means, but not having earned much money myself over the years has made me feel a bit fearful. So much so sometimes that when I haven't sold jewelry and cards for awhile and then get some sales I tend to squirrel the money away. And then it always makes me slightly edgy when I have to spend it.
    While I do feel that I am 'wealthy' with things like family, friends, and many other non-monetary things, and I'm basically a happy person, I would still probably have a very hard time if I ever had to support myself financially.
    Strange, huh? lol

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  38. Ron, I just love the way you write. You express yourself so accurately and clearly. And you speak very natural about whatever you're talking about.


    I was blessed with parents who told me to choose a career that I felt passionate about because if I was going to do something to make a living, it should be something I loved doing. And fortunately what I love doing is something that I'm able to make a good living at. But I also realize that in today's economy, I could be let go with budget cuts. So you're right, it's not about feeling secure in money, it's about feeling secure inside. Because things could change for any of us in a heartbeat.


    Great post!

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  39. Hey ho Robert~

    Thank you for your kind and supportive words, buddy. I try to write how I speak.

    "I was blessed with parents who told me to choose a career that I felt passionate about because if I was going to do something to make a living, it should be something I loved doing. And fortunately what I love doing is something that I'm able to make a good living at."

    BRAVO! It's so important for us to do things that we LOVE doing because the passion is what keeps us going. I'm one of those people who MUST do something that I love or I can't do it - even if it means working a job that I might not get paid as well as something else. I would rather make less, but be happier.

    "it's not about feeling secure in money, it's about feeling secure inside. Because things could change for any of us in a heartbeat."



    You're absolutely right, Robert! Things could change for any of us in a heartbeat.


    Thanks so much for stopping by. Have a fantabulous week!


    X

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  40. Hey there Mary~

    I think my attitude comes from all the ups and downs I've had in my life when it comes to my various careers, so I've had practice - HA! There have been times when I've made a lot, and then times when it was scarce. So I've had to learn how to adapt quickly and be grateful for what I had and enjoy simple things.

    " Ron has always made enough to cover our basic expenses and we live within our means, but not having earned much money myself over the years has made me feel a bit fearful."

    Yes, I know what you mean because it CAN be scary.

    "While I do feel that I am 'wealthy' with things like family, friends, and many other non-monetary things, and I'm basically a happy person, I would still probably have a very hard time if I ever had to support myself financially. Strange, huh?"



    No, not strange at all. As I shared, it's not easy when your single because you have to support yourself, solely. But knowing you and your creative talents, I KNOW you could do it :)


    Thanks so much for stopping by, neighbor! Have a fantabulous week!


    X

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  41. "... You are not how much money you have in the bank. You are not the shoes you wear. You are not the contents of your wallet." -Fight Club

    I hear you, and fully agree. It's tough to get ahead nowadays, and saving money becomes more difficult as time rolls by. But I'm in the habit of saving saving money every month. Sure, I'm not successful every month, but $100 here, $500 there, it adds up. And when there are times when I'm short, it feels like a blessing to have something to fall back on.

    Oh, and I can't suggest investing in silver highly enough. I've been buying a good amount every month for quite a while now, and it does nothing but go up in value (almost! Heh...). Check out places like apmex.com. Buy some silver every month and sock it away. Doing this, you forget it's money, which makes it easier to save! And silver adjusts with inflation, unlike cash! After a year or two of this, you'll be surprised at how much money you have squirreled away for a rainy day!

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  42. Hoowdy Herman!

    LOVE the quote from Fight Club!!!!

    " Sure, I'm not successful every month, but $100 here, $500 there, it adds up. And when there are times when I'm short, it feels like a blessing to have something to fall back on."

    I think it's AWESOME that you do that because yes, $100 here, $500 there, DOES add up. And QUICKLY. Even $50 adds up!

    And thank for sharing your experience with purchasing silver because while my mother was still alive, she said the SAME THING to me. I kid you not. So it must be an omen. And yes,I will look into purchasing some, definitely!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, buddy. Have a great rest of your week!

    X to you, Karin, and Mr. Tyler!

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  43. Such wise words, Ron. I've had a number of "careers" over the years but I've always been a poor money manager. And my parents had huge money issues. Not that they didn't have it, they just didn't want to spend it. So everytime I buy something "frivolous" for myself, the guilt kicks in.
    But, yes, I have lots of wealth in other aspects of my life. Thanks for reminding me. :-)

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  44. Hiya Chrissy!

    I think we all have money issues in one way or another - whether it be having a lot or a little. Or even how we think of money - over spending or fear of spending.

    Money is a strange thing, isn't it? Because it's all in how we think of it and how we believe it equates our overall feeling of wealth.

    "But, yes, I have lots of wealth in other aspects of my life."



    You sure do, girl!


    (((((( You ))))))


    Thanks so much for stopping by. Have a terrific week!


    X to you and the gang!

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  45. Jay of The Depp EffectTuesday, March 12, 2013

    Applause!!

    You are absolutely right, Ron. It's a bit like my 'How to be Happy' thing: you can choose to be happy by finding your pleasure and happiness in small things, and you can choose to feel wealthy by doing much the same in a slightly different way.

    When OH and I married we had practically nothing between us. I, coming straight from home, with only a very poorly paid job, and he having been living in a bedsit with an only slightly better job. When the boys were young I often dressed us all in jumble sale (equivalent to yard sale) clothes, which I would alter to fit. But I never felt 'poor' as such. I knew we WERE, but didn't feel it!



    Wealth is a funny thing, anyway. It doesn't make you happy. I believe that's true.

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  46. Hey there Jay!

    " It's a bit like my 'How to be Happy' thing: you can choose to be happy by finding your pleasure and happiness in small things, and you can choose to feel wealthy by doing much the same in a slightly different way."

    You are so spot on, my friend!!!! And that's right...it is a bit like your 'How To Be Happy' posts.

    " But I never felt 'poor' as such. I knew we WERE, but didn't feel it!"

    Thank you for sharing that story because it's in perfect sync with this post topic.

    "Wealth is a funny thing, anyway. It doesn't make you happy. I believe that's true."

    Amen.

    Thanks for stopping by, Jay. And thanks for your insight!

    Have a supa' week.....X

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  47. Ron, during the times when I've struggled with finances, were the times I felt the most wealthy because I had nothing BUT to focus on the things in my life to be grateful. When things are going well, I'm not as apt to notice those things. It's humbling.

    Really nice post!

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  48. Hiya Matt~

    " When things are going well, I'm not as apt to notice those things. It's humbling."



    OMG...you said it, buddy. In fact, when I went through bankruptcy, I learned that lesson, big time! Now, whenever I go grocery shopping I say THANK YOU because there was a time when I struggled to even have food on the table. Before that, I never noticed those things.


    Thanks for stopping by and sharing on this post, Matt. You've added much! Enjoy your week!


    X

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  49. Amen, Ron. Amen.

    I am a BROKE ASS BITCH but I am wealthy in family & friends and that is good enough for this chick.

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  50. And you my dear friend, just shared my primary point of this post.

    "I am a BROKE ASS BITCH but I am wealthy in family & friends and that is good enough for this chick."

    Amen to YOU!!!!!!!

    And btw, you're not a broken ass bitch at all, because anyone who can sustain the positive, humorous, and overall AWESOME attitude from all that you've gone through...is more together and healthy than most people!

    ((((((( You ))))))

    Thanks for stopping by girl, and for sharing on this post. You've added MUCH!

    X

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  51. Money has always seemed to have slipped through my fingers, the more I make, the quicker it slips. Paul and I have five children between us, three in college, but like you, I feel wealthy. We have exactly what we want. We own two homes, one 497 square feet in Boston and the other, 900 square feet in Maine. Not much square footage, but huge in heart and love. I am so happy for you Ron!
    xo

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  52. Hey there Bill~

    "We own two homes, one 497 square feet in Boston and the other, 900 square feet in Maine. Not much square footage, but huge in heart and love."

    Yes, whenever I think of you and Paul, I always think WEALTH.

    Heart and love.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Hope you're having a FAB week!

    X to you and Paul!

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  53. "Even in the lowest times of struggle and worry, I have always been wealthy" - I really love this line of yours! Wealth is not always about money, it is about freedom, joy, passion, and good health. It is about being grateful with what we're blessed with. This is a very nice post, Ron!

    Throughout my career life, I'm amazed to see how people around me were happy to spend hours after hours at work clocking maximum overtime and yet, after so many years, I've never seen satisfaction in their face nor their words and they never seemed to feel enough. Their conversations are always filled with complaints and I rarely hear any words of gratefulness.

    I've gone through difficulties in life too and it had taught me to always live a simple life. Unfortunately, I do not enjoy much freedom as I'm still tied with hectic schedules at work, and working in an environment filled with complaints and slanders.

    I wish you happiness always. Take care, my friend!

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  54. Greetings Zunnur~

    You nailed it, buddy!

    "Wealth is not always about money, it is about freedom, joy, passion, and good health. It is about being grateful with what we're blessed with."

    I agree!

    "I'm amazed to see how people around me were happy to spend hours after hours at work clocking maximum overtime and yet, after so many years, I've never seen satisfaction in their face nor their words and they never seemed to feel enough."

    Yes, I know of many people the same - it's never enough. They seem to work for their addiction to spending, so they're always working to catch up to their bills. It's like a cycle.

    "I've gone through difficulties in life too and it had taught me to always live a simple life."

    For me, that's the key - living simple. Before spending, I ask myself, "Do I really need this?" And if I don't, I don't buy it. And it's amazing how much I don't need.

    Always great to read your comments, my friend! Thanks so much for stopping by!

    Have a SUPER week!

    X

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  55. I have had episodes in my life when I worried, fretted and was afraid that there was not enough money to make it. Guess What? I did make it and I am still making it! Do I make or have a ton of money? No, not really. But I have the smiles of two grand daughters and I love they way they look at Papa and want to play. I have the love of many people who want to share ideas and conversation. I have the opportunities to make mistakes and learn. I have the ability to laugh and giggle. I know the what a rose smells like and how great the touch of a soft hand on my shoulder feels. I can sense that God and the Universe are there and that with them there is nothing I cannot achieve. I know that the only real time is now and that all things happen now. Yes ~ I too am wealthy.

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  56. "I have had episodes in my life when I worried, fretted and was afraid that there was not enough money to make it. Guess What? I did make it and I am still making it!"

    *clapping and cheering*

    BRAVO Dave!

    Every single word of your comment put a HUGE smile on face as I read them.

    Thank you. Thank you so much, buddy!

    And this summed it all up perfectly....

    " I know that the only real time is now and that all things happen now. Yes ~ I too am wealthy."

    Amen!

    Hope you're having the most excellent week! Much thanks for stopping by!

    X

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  57. Ron - I think of you as one of the wealthiest people I know from a spiritual and interpersonal standpoint. You can have all the money in the world but if you aren't personally fulfilled, it doesn't really mean a whole lot. It's something that we all need to grapple with in our lives. We need enough to live but not so much to be dependent on it for our happiness. As you know, money makes life easier but doesn't make you content.

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  58. Hey there Jen!

    Aw...thank you, girl :)

    ". We need enough to live but not so much to be dependent on it for our happiness. As you know, money makes life easier but doesn't make you content."

    A-MEN! You are SPOT ON!

    Thanks so much for stopping by. Have a flawless weekend!

    X

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