It is natural to ask the question, “When will things get better?” However, that could be a very misleading question. It is not difficult a stretch to claim that values of consumerism were pervasive, but not sustainable. The consequence was the creation of a consumer-based economy that was dependent on people living beyond their means, supported by easy credit. As credit dried up, house values and retire accounts decreased, so did purchasing. So, when will things get better? To have purchasing power as widespread as it is now, it will take another period of irresponsible lending and purchasing. So… is that better? Read the rest of this entry »