|
The Good Old Days? Really? |
|
 "The hardest arithmetic for human beings to master is that which enables us to count our blessings," wrote the great American working man's philosopher Eric Hoffer.
2011 has not been an easy year as financial uncertainty and political banter filled the headlines. Unfortunately, with a Presidential election in 2012 and no easy solution to the financial challenges in Europe, we can expect more of the same next year.
Nevertheless, during the holiday season, we are choosing to focus on the things we are grateful for...our families, our clients, our friends, our health, and the comforts that we do enjoy.
In a commentary entitled, "The Good Old Days?," the author provides us with a brief historical perspective on past challenges that dwarf the issues that crowd today's headlines. History teaches that the human spirit always finds a way to overcome the anxiety and uncertainty despite the magnitude of the issues. The article reminds us:
- "... that tragedy and uncertainty will always be with us. But the important point to take away from it is that previous generations have stared down and overcome far greater obstacles than we face today. And while it is easy to focus on the bad news, we mustn't overlook the good either."
- "Today, while the US and Europe are gripped by tough economic times, much of the developing world is thriving. Populous nations such as China and India are emerging as prosperous nations with large middle classes. And smaller, poorer economies are making advances too."
- "... new communications technology is improving our understanding of different cultures and increasing tolerance across borders while providing new avenues for the spread of ideas in education, health care, technology, and business."
- His conclusion..."Anxiety over recent market developments is completely understandable, and it is quite human to feel concerned about events in Europe. But amid all the bad news, it is also clear that the world is changing in positive ways that provide plenty of cause for hope and, at the very least, gratitude for what we already have. These are ideas to keep in mind when we scan the news and long for the "good old days."
|
