Priorities

Bob told me that he would be surprised if he made it thorough the year without getting laid off. (Whatever sound they make in the cartoon strips when someone gets socked in the gut, insert here.) It's not that this is a new or by any means unique worry, but it sure feels differently when possibility evolves into probability. From vanity project to life skill, in record time. I would rapidly lose the smug satisfaction of breaking my spending compulsions, and chafe at the restrictions - even if the day to day decisions were the same. A bit more fiscal discipline is never a bad thing, but... it's voluntary simplicity, remember? Even if this becomes more of a lifeskill than a year-long project, being responsible about spending decisions for the extras doesn't quite translate into wondering where the funds for mortgage, health insurance and food will come from. It makes me worry enough to dangle participles, which is never a good sign.

The ubiquitous "they" state that any stressor is made more manageable by knowing how long it will last. Think about years of ridiculous hours, huge challenges with innumerable bosses and clients, never have enough money or sleep or time to do a job you feel good about. That would be medical school, which is a brutal 7 years, but with an end date and a degree. It's the not knowing that produces the majority of worry, even if the circumstances are the same. I think this is why so many of the news commentators are trying desperately to find a model and a timeline for our present Good-Enough Depression. Even if they're wrong, it's something.

I read something several weeks ago about the so-called Lipstick Index. Apparently the only recession-proof sector of the economy is health and beauty - and we're not talking merely Walgreens - more about Macy's wrinkle cream industry. Here's a similar article that talks about spending intentions. Check it out at:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090113/lf_afp/lifestylefinanceeconomyfashion_20090113061800

So, is it a primal thing? Do we really prioritize beauty during unsure times, as if being attractive is a bankable commodity? Or is it a cheap, feel-good attempt? The microcosm of makeup is probably more reassuring than macroeconomics, if only for the comfort of the ritual. It's like buying hope, but with more choices. Matte? Glossy? Sparkly? It may wear off, but it's a good optimistic gesture.