Bank failures.  Foreclosures.  Sinking house values.  Rising grocery prices.  Record oil prices.  Wobbly stock markets.  Just scanning the recent headlines can cause fear in even the most optimistic person.  But, just as the old saying goes, there is a silver lining in every cloud.  Although my wallet is thinner and my budget continues to change, this tightened economy has offered some opportunities for reflection, thankfulness and growth.

Rediscovering God’s World- In trying to conserve gas, I have taken to walking to any activities close to our home.  With six, five, and three year olds, plus an eleven month old, our walks tend to be full of stops, restarts and side steps.  But, in slowing down, I have rediscovered the joy of just being outside.  Yes, the opportunities for impromptu homeschool lessons are great, but so are the moments of just listening to excited toddlers chatting about small discoveries. 

Reconnecting with Friends- In making the decision to consolidate all of my weekly errands and activities to one day, I have had to turn down playdates and get-togethers with friends.  Left with more free time than normal, I have actually been able to catch up with many friends through email and good old-fashioned letters.  Instead of spending two hours trying to finish a thought over "Mommy!" and "She hit me!," we have great conversations and connect in a real and meaningful way. 

Resting in Contentment- We have spent over two years discussing and attempting to sell our house and buy a new one.  We are still in the old one.  But, both my husband and I, although frustrated at times, are incredibly happy in our tiny house.  We have learned the power of contentment.

About three years ago, my husband started a new job with a much higher salary, and we quickly adjusted.  We ate in restaurants that had been out of our budget for years.  We bought stuff.  Lots of it.  But we were not happy.  Instead of enjoying what we had, we simply wanted more.  Eventually we realized the root of our unrest and settled back into the budgeted lifestyle. 

Now, the current mortgage crisis has forced us to sit tight for a little while longer.  But instead of whining and complaining (which I still do at times), I try to look around me every day and thank God for the roof over my head, the food on my table and especially the little blessings making my house a mess.

Relishing the Little Things- A tightened budget means all the extras get squeezed out.  Our entertainment budget is cut in half.  Our grocery budget is down by $100 a month. And childcare, clothing and gifts are basically gone.  But, oh, the appreciation level is up!

A soda has become a luxury.  Eating out is an indescribable joy.  And a favorite book, new shirt or perfect birthday gift found at a yard sale for pennies is a true blessing. 

There are many things that money can buy.  But as the financial situation over our country darkens, remember that happiness, joy, contentment, peace and worth are not any of them.