Reply #67: I really admire you. . .

[kevinbgoode]

I've usually just not been able to bring myself to wear thrift store clothing. . .but I've scoured the racks of the drastically discounted stuff at every store around...I mean, down to $5 shirts and $15 jeans. . .even if it makes me a little out of style.

Entertainment is sometimes the hard part - though at school there is always work to do. And you are right about those who have no outlet or wealthy relatives or chance to better themselves...it's an unending cycle. I've lived in fear of being homeless, and have been lucky so far, but every American who lives paycheck to paycheck should become very aware of how close anyone is to that reality.

Being single again, I've learned to downsize a lot - and LIKE it. Less maintenance, less hassle. . .but I'm not maintaining a house, just an apartment. I think the weirdest adjustment is the feeling of disconnect from that consumer-crazy life. . .and the worry about not having insurance or ways to take care of a health emergency. So you are right - students at least have health insurance while in school. . .and lots of extra discounts.

And I agree - we CAN afford to get most people out of poverty and into decent (meaning self-respecting) lives.

And sorry about your Pop's passing. . .nothing can replace that for anyone.