Saving: Why Men Put Off Accumulating Wealth
A MAN is very apt to deceive himself into the idea that he cannot save, and that it is of no use attempting it. He convinces himself that his income is little enough for present necessities, and puts off the hope of accumulation, if formed at all, to the happy period when he shall be in somewhat better circumstances. His circumstances do, perhaps, improve; but his wants have extended as much, and still the time for saving is far ahead. Thus he goes on and on, resolving and re-resolving, until at last surprised by some sudden calamity which deprives him even of his ordinary earnings, or by death, which cruelly cuts him off in the very midst of the best intentions in the world. Did any man, we would ask, experience a falling off in his income, even to so small an extent as one dollar in the week? Many answer they have. Did they continue to live at a reduced rate? They reply, We did so—we are compelled to do it. Very well; and, pray, what is the difference between being compelled to live a dollar a week cheaper, and compelling yourself to do it? Or, suppose stationary wages, and a rising produce market—did you not find that though bread rose a penny a loaf, and other provisions in proportion, you still continued to make your income procure something like the usual exhibition of victuals? You answer, Yes. And where, I would ask, is the difference between spending a small, extra sum upon certain articles of food, and laying it by for accumulation, supposing it not to be so needed? It is clear that if you had the fortitude and strength of character to make the savings as much a matter of compulsion as the other circumstances are, you would save. You have, therefore, no excuse to present for not saving, except that you are too weak-minded to abstain from using money which is in your power.—New York Ledger.