I guess, we (historically) are way past what was called “The Information Age” – computers, internet access, google it. From my perspective, it feels like we have graduated (certainly not progressed) to the MIS-information Age. We are now bombarded by more “stuff” than we can possibly digest. But, there persists the hunger for more and more. The hard, but essentially important part is trying to figure out what to accept and what to question. We must factor in a person’s or entity’s motivation for saying or writing what they say and write. An incorrect assumption can get you in a lot of trouble. As I said, this is difficult but critically important. Some people can’t be bothered to put in the extra effort it takes to question and not just take it for granted as the truth. Others, I fear, are incapable of taking this extra step. Still others will take full advantage of the “opportunity” this presents for those who want to misinform for political or other purposes not readily apparent on first reading. We are consuming often unsolicited messages throughout our days as the sources multiply often unedited. The power of knowledge can all-to easily be hijacked in the name of amassing followers or registering clicks for an unknown cause or crusade. Due diligence is required to stay well informed rather than mis-informed.
I bring up all this existential food for thought to introduce a much more specific area of concern that DRIVES ME CRAZY! My concern involves all of the unsolicited advice we are bombarded with by so-called financial experts on how to save money in times of high inflation and more limited federal support for the average person. These folks are all over the internet, TV talk shows and even the evening news. “Ten easy ways to save money in tough times” is the typical title used to draw your attention (or register a click.) Invariably, the sage wisdom they wish to impart (usually at number 6 or 7 on the list) involves not paying somebody else to make your coffee on the way to work each morning. Those terrible people at Starbucks or Dunkin are leading you into financial ruin! That $3.00 – 8.00 (or more) for something you could easily make at home “can really add up”! Duh!
Despite the astounding nature of this revelation, they forget that the morning cup of coffee at your favorite stopping off point is so much more than just a hot (or cold) morning beverage. Sure, I could brew my own coffee at home and take it with me for the trip to work and would admittedly save a bunch of money. But, WHAT FUN IS THAT?!
For me “Going out for Coffee” is so much more than just the coffee. There is the morning ritual involved. It is part of the “human experience”. It is the camaraderie of sharing your “daily grind” with the world (or at least your neighbors.) as it seeks the solace of that dependable wake me up that a lot of us swear by. Even better, it’s that little bit of joy you feel when the clerk knows you by name and maybe even starts making your order as soon as you walk in the door. It’s a small thing but has meaning way beyond its seeming insignificance. It may be the only “splurge” you allow yourself the whole day. It’s that human interaction (no matter how brief) that we crave that at least has the potential to get you off on the right foot each day. It is a proud declaration that “We are all in this together!”
Don’t let the “experts” from some web page or instagram post guilt you into feeling bad about what makes you feel good every morning. If I want to cut back, I will get chicken thighs instead of the porter house steak at the grocery store. I will look around for the cheapest (a VERY relative term) gas and save 10 – 20 cents/ gallon. I will wear the same sneakers for another 6 months rather than buy those cool new ones I scrolled by the other day.
Saving money doesn’t have to involve a compilation of small sacrifices and it shouldn’t cost you that little shot of joy as you take that first sip of coffee that somebody else was kind enough to make and deliver to you.
Sometimes, it is the small things that help make life livable. Don’t be chided into losing that, no matter what.
PS. The author has received no compensation from Starbucks or Dunkin for this message.
Old and Cranky News 
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