I think that a bit of "economic hardship" is important. I did not grow up privileged. I grew up very poor. And, let me say, that "very" poor is an understatement. I could write a book about it. I struggled to find economic success and myself. I worked my way through college (after dropping out of highschool) and still struggled. There were times when I wondered why? Why did I work those two jobs and take 12 hours of classes while raising my sons? I had no time to myself. None.

I did it for my two sons. And, in the end, I made it. I am not rich or even upper middle class. I see prices rising beyond what I can afford. So, I started gardening again and producing my own. I made pickles last summer that we are still eating. They turned out really good and I have become really an expert in canning. I refuse to depend on the government or anyone else for my livelihood. I am sort of independent and sort of stubborn. I like myself. My youngest thinks I am weird. Oh well. I guess I am. I own a small piece of property that can sustain my family in need. I own it. I am not over extended in debt. I am free of those worries. I think part of my unique situation is that I was raised by a Buddhist. My mother never thought much of material goods and frankly, I am sort of like her. I don't need to be the Joneses. The end. ;-) Gosh, I hate when I sound preachy but there you go.