Debt and Abundance

22. August 2005

I was exploring Demos and Inequality today and reflecting on the growing divide between rich and poor along with the rise in credit card debt and wondering on an approach to this from a more holistic perspective.

DEMOS

What I see as being needed is a path away from fear and the buy now pay later culture. Only borrow to invest in something that will add real value to your life. Generally this means little beyond your house, training or education and perhaps a car. That is of course terribly sensible and sensible can be rather dull and risk free. Wealthy people take risks, they start businesses, lend money, borrow money etc. and with investments as well as life the greatest risks may also reap the greatest returns or losses. So a balance between the two maybe, sensibly reckless, just pushing your comfort level a little.

I feel that most people who have got themselves into high credit card debt have done so out of fear for the future. That impulse purchase that gives oh so temporary relief from the inner pangs of un-fulfillment. What really brings us joy? A new toy or satisfying relationships and a balanced life? Many poor people have and still do climb the ladder to wealth so the doorway remains ever open. And many wealthy people are also highly fearful of becoming poor again and act through that blinkered perspective hoarding and scheming. But what will drive society to a greater parity between rich and poor? A marked desire for that end from a significant number of people I suggest. Change will come when enough of us want it and demand it. It was ever so.

On an individual level we can make different choices, choices that reflect our true desire to live real and meaningful lives. We can choose to buy fewer but better made products. We can risk changing or quitting jobs, starting businesses, writing books, being kind and generous, learning new skills, we can say yes to life. We can offer an alternative to dwelling on the apparent injustices of the world and feeling helpless or squashed.

The path to abundance is as simple as daring to risk living your dreams. Your debts could be viewed as a commitment to do exactly that. The moment you say YES to life then Life says Yes in return.

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