March 27, 2008 We live in a credit world. Everything is on credit. We fall victims to it easily without our even knowing it. There are so many things around us that attract our attention to spend. We just need to be careful. To avoid unnecessary spending, one must first realize the difference between "need" and "want". Need is what sustains our lives like, food, clothing and shelter. Want is anything we can do without, like having a pet or an expensive car. There are some of us who can satisfy both "need" and "want". Good for them! But for the majority of people, life is a constant struggle. And they are not even lazy! Some of them have to work in two or more jobs just to catch up with the bare necessities of life. Some wise guy noted: "Life isn't fair". Yet, we are in it and have to live it! Another wise man said: " Why should I be held accountable for every wrong I have done? I was not consulted to come here and live." But still another wiser man said:"I came to this life with nothing. I will leave it without bringing anything. What happens in-between is what matters." Of the three guys, I prefer the third one. It's up to all of us in making a difference in our lives. Credit is a great help in advancing our own lives. It comes with responsibility. It is the gauge of how responsible a person is. However, things happen that are beyond the control of the creditor. After satisfactory explanation, this person must be given a second chance. I'm glad there are many crditors who do give second chances. Hats off to them! Let's hope credit will someday become affordable. In this way, many people will be ready to live responsible lives. Nick C. Bacalla