Chrissy in CT's blog: "hard times"

Im reposting this blog by Stephanie Lynn because as one of the many who sit here on a daily basis watching people spend money here it really bothers me when I know that the money squandered here could be better served. I am one of the have nots. Layed of since October and struggling to survive. Without the kindness of a few friends who are to humble to be named I WOULD NOT SURVIVE this storm of financial crisis. Read her words and heed them. $35 for an auto 11 will feed me for a week. A happy hour will pay my cable and feed me that week. I wish i was better fixed or I'd be "handing it forward" too to help someone else. Read her words: "I can't believe you remember me... One last thing I want to say to y'all... my friends... It is such a big world out there... and frankly, it's not looking that great. Maybe I'm biased living in NYC... but I know so many people across this country that are not doing well... that need a job, or help with their grocery bill, paying for childcare, medical bills. I've been such an advocate for giving to causes. Right now, the causes for me are close to home.. my friends that need to pay the rent or buy groceries or the power bill. I'm just guessing that most that read this will know someone or are themselves directly impacted by this terrible economy. Please don't bling me. Please. Don't Cherry Bomb me (are you kidding me??). Please don't think that I need that. Before you buy bling, think about how your $20 could impact someone. It could in fact buy a grocery trip for a savvy shopper (I know someone that can turn $20 into a weeks worth of food -- she's amazing). Of course I am a bad example... it's clear I spent a LOT of money on Fubar. But in fact, I have thought about my priorities and how my money can be better spent. I would never presume to tell someone how to spend their leisure time or excess funds... I'm just imploring you not to spend it on me. I'm not saying I heard any calling other than my banker saying "Really. WTF??"... but my broker isn't my savior. I'm clear on that point. I found my Savior well before this collapse... so I am not susceptible to the weekly Kabbalah meetings advertised in New York Magazine. Stephanie Lynn would just be happy if y'all loved each other and you occasionally thought of this woman that once upon a time went nuts and gave away a lot of stuff in the name of friendship. If I can ask one favor of you... help your family and friends first. We are in this together. Ask a friend if she needs gas money. Buy gift cards for a family member that needs groceries. Pay the toll for the person in front of you if you can. And if you need help, ask for it and be clear as to what you need. People are kind and willing to help if we know how. Sometimes we just don't know how we can be most helpful. Be well. Be good. Help those near you that need help. Or you know, buy bling... whatever.. Love to y'all... Goodbye friends... Steph Eloquent words from an even more eloquent woman. Thanks girl! Chrissy