Well, here we are on another May Day. May first.
What to expect for this summer of 2008?
Higher gas prices? That seems certain. People won’t be driving as much which means open roads for those braving sky-high prices at the pump.
Exchange rates will keep Americans at home. But we will be seeing lots of foreign tourists eager to take advantage of our fallen dollar. Hopefully they won’t purchase our country as well.
Yes, the money is gone. Inflation, deficits and a spendthrift mind-set have taken their toll. The grand American shopping extravaganza has come to an end.
But silver linings are to be had. Less money means less consumerism. Less obsession with flashy toys for pampered tots and name-brand fashions for haughty teens. And sighs of relief from beleaguered parents across the nation.
Actually, it could be an interesting summer. There won’t be so much gadding about with mad fixations on latest fads. There might even be time for contemplation.
Not such a bad thing. Contemplation. Maybe Americans will start reading again. More time at the book stalls and less time at the shopping malls.
Less stress. More joys of simple pleasures.
Deadly Angel author Andrew Cofrin
