Could The Economic Recession Strengthen the American Community?
By Ted Grudin
Of course no one’s too excited about a $5 gallon of gas (unless you happen to be pro-environment like me) or the loss of jobs that results from the impending recession in the United States of America.
But one thing I will say in its favor is that it builds character. Hardships and struggles challenge us to make it without the usual padding and ease. In other words, instead of driving across town, you may just decide you have to take public transit. Instead of flying to Moscow for your vacation, you may consider going camping 60 miles away from where you live, or staying at a friend’s cabin. Instead of eating out at that fancy restaurant, you may stay home and cook those potatoes and leeks that the previous owner of your house had planted in your backyard. Instead of moving far away from your family, you may just decide to stay near, or you may even live with your parents longer (this is quite the norm in some countries, and I see nothing wrong with it as long as it is done right).
I will not go as far as to say that whatever doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. No, I don’t believe such a fallacy. It simply isn’t true - if you eat ten pounds of laundry detergent and survive, you surely will not be stronger.
But, I will say that these impending economic hardships in our country may just bring our communities closer together - they may make us face our communities in ways we have never done before. And it may strengthen both our communities and our culture.
Of course I am not saying that this would be easy, but what true growth is ever easy?