We all know of a friend, relative or business that has been adversely impacted during this economic downturn which has swept the nation. These people have lost their jobs, homes or healthcare coverage. Senior citizens have lost their life’s savings and are being forced to come out of retirement to seek employment just to try and keep their heads above water. There are the poor, the lost and the needy who even during a good economic climate, suffer from hunger and homelessness. Many small business owners have had to scale back or shut down and large companies are forced to reduce payrolls by the thousands. The economic crisis has made its way to every doorstep. It seems, with many asking the question, “How do I adapt to these changing times?”
I’m reminded of the book, “Who Moved my Cheese,” by Dr. Spencer Johnson. This story is about how four characters respond to change, with cheese being a metaphor for what we want to attain in life (job, money, a big home, health, a business, etc.). The characters in the book experience the discovery, enjoyment and eventual loss of cheese. It is quite interesting how each character chooses to deal with the loss and the immediate demand for change. So, here we find ourselves with the same dilemma. Dr. Miles Munroe states in his new book, “The Principle and Benefits of Change,” that “the most important thing to know about change is to expect it.” He further states, “Comfort traps us from development and growth.” I’ve had discussions with many people about these uncomfortable times and some of them believe that things will never be the same again. I agree. I believe that we are going to have to learn how to live with less and that we have to rethink what we want and why we want it. With smart decisions, right choices and increasing our awareness about new and innovative options this, too, will pass, and we’ll be the better for it.
In the meantime, we need to support our local businesses by shopping locally and getting involved in one of our local community, non-profit or faith-based organizations and making a difference. Random acts of kindness can mean so much to someone less fortunate than you. Be that difference! Now, more than ever, we all must do our part to rebuild, renew and reinvent ourselves like never before. There is tremendous opportunity before us if we’re able to adapt to our changing economic climate. The biggest change we’re going to have to make is between our ears!
Greg Taylor is a Renton City Council member and chairman of the council’s Public Safety Committee. You can reach him at gtaylor@rentonwa.gov. Taylor is also the Branch Manager/Mortgage Consultant for Windermere Mortgage Services Series LLC/South, 3900 East Valley Rd., Suite 200, in Renton.
