…’ The Dow suffered its largest point decline in its history, 778 points, while the S&P was off 8.75%, its worst decline since 1987, and the Nasdaq lost over 9%, which will certainly grab headlines — and rightfully so…’

Let’s stop and think about how we arrived here.

I am by no means an expert in Politics, or Economics for that matter, but I what I do know is Greed played a large part of this collapse. Bigger houses, bigger cars, designer rags, you get the idea. And if you don’t have the cash to purchase any of these items, you can use plastic (and there were plenty of banks that would give you a fat line of credit!)  I’ll be honest, I fell prey to the temptation myself. But a few months ago I decided, enough is enough – time to cut these cards up and take responsibility for my part. We all need to take personal responsibility – banks and Government included. I’m not saying we shouldn’t have or deserve the finer things, but what ever happened to setting a goal and saving for it? And besides, working your tail off for these blessings make it even sweeter.

This country lost sight of how individuals can truly thrive, both pocket and soul: Taking Responsibility For Our Part (including CEO’s with their Golden Parachutes.) I’m familiar with this parachute (two former CEO’s of Penton bailed with a nice one.) I agree with Obama, it’s an outrage.

… “Last week another bank went under,” an announcer says as the spot opens. “But its CEO could walk away with $19 million. John McCain’s advisor, Carly Fiorina: The fired CEO who left with $42 million. Barack Obama says it’s got to change, demanded any Wall St. bailout restricts CEO pay….”

I think I saw this line on a bumper sticker once: Consume less – Share more. We need to embrace this as our mantra moving forward….