EXTRAVAGANCE - WHAT A FEELING !

OH, THOSE CREDIT CARDS...
                     "OUT OF THE MOUTH OF BABES"

Evie and her seven-year-old son were shopping at the local mall.  It was time for school clothes and supplies.  She wanted her son to have a positive experience and purchase what was needed. Her family was known for extravagance. First mistake...She coaxed him with the promise of a new toy if he behaved.

She good naturedly gathered the never-ending school items into the cart. She heard the cash register going off in her head. "How much of this does a 7-year-old need?" thought Evie. She went on to tackle the purchase of school clothes; new sneakers, shirts, pants, socks etc. Naturally, all brand names! She quickly realized how prices had climbed and exceeded her budget.

Tommy tugged at her coat to remind her that it was time to pick out his promised reward...just for going! She guided him to a table of toys in the $20.00 range. Tommy was not having that and scampered away before she could blink an eye.  He was headed toward the electronic games. He gathered 6 games, each with a price tag of over $50.00 and happily added them to their cart. Evie took a deep breath and explained that his choices were too expensive. The 7-year-old looked up with big sad eyes and said, "Why?" Evie felt that the best thing to do would be to explain that she did not have enough money and that would be that! She said, "I would love to buy these for you, but I do not have any more money to spend." Tommy thought for a moment and then said,
                "Don't worry Mommy, I'll find the money for you."  With that he reached into her purse, 
                 handed her her wallet, and pointed to the credit cards. He triumphantly explained, 
                "Mommy, just pick one...go over to that counter and put it in that machine. 
                 Now it is paid for! "

MORAL OF THE STORY

WOW! OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES! Magic! It is clear that Tommy was observant. He had witnessed his Mom take a little plastic card and WHOOSH...IT IS PAID FOR! How many adults think the same way as this seven-year-old? They are not thinking of the pay day yet-to-come and how debt builds up.  
EXTRAVAGANCE is made up of overspending, recklessness, and indulgence. Tommy has learned his lesson well.

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