State of the world can spur changes
Dear Annie: This letter is about a much bigger problem — namely, the state of the world today. It’s impossible to turn on the news without getting depressed, whether because of natural disasters or the bitter state of politics in our country. Addiction to alcohol, opioids and other drugs is rampant, and everyone is addicted to smartphones. No one can civilly disagree anymore. People are ruder than ever. And from the way things are going, it seems everything will just continue to get worse. It makes me glad I decided not to have children.
It seems as if the end of the world is imminent, and at this point, I’d welcome it. When did things start going so wrong? How is anyone supposed to care about anything these days?
Realist, Not Pessimist
Dear Realist, Not Pessimist: What’s the use in scrutinizing the world’s problems if you have no intention of being part of the solutions? That attitude contributes nothing but stomach ulcers.
Volunteer with an organization you believe in; organize neighborhood cleanups. If you’re down in the dumps, try therapy. Go out and be the change you want to see in the world, or at least change the way you see the world. Dear Annie: I wrote to you a little over a year ago about my family’s gift-giving tradition during the holidays and how it was, well, basically sending me to the poorhouse because of new additions to the family.
Your advice was spot on. You suggested that I speak with my siblings. I was prepared to speak with my family at our next family gathering, and I was pleasantly surprised. Two of my sisters had had a conversation about this very thing and approached us all with a new gift-giving plan that worked out well for our entire family.
I am happy to report that we have incorporated the new plan and, as a result, none of us is spending as much money as before. I wanted to thank you for your help. Not Broke Anymore
Dear Not Broke Anymore: I am so glad to hear that the situation solved itself and that you indeed were not the only one thinking it was time for a change.