WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU SAID, “I CAN’T AFFORD IT?”

It was a beautiful Monday morning and I was driving in rush hour traffic on my way to Spelman College from Stockbridge, Georgia. As I relaxed in my vehicle listening to V-103 (the people’s station) about the latest news and happenings around the City of Atlanta I noticed my gas tank was very low. I decided to pull over to Quick-Trip for some petroleum. I begin to ponder, “Why gas is so expensive?” Next, discouraged saying, “How long will the citizens of the United States of America have to endure these high gas prices?” Finally, the most pertinent question, “What is the President of the United States doing to cease this problem?”

I'm blessed to know I'm in a rich scholarly environment. Having the privilege to pursue a superb education is refining me intellectually, socially, economically and politically.

Did you know in the United States of America in some states like Georgia minimum wage is $7.25, Florida is $7.25, Louisiana is $7.25, New York is $7.25 and Hawaii is $7.25 (The United State Department of Labor: 2009). If you multiply $7.25(40) it equals $290.00 a week. If you multiply $290.00 (4) it equals $1,160.00 a month. If you multiply $1,160.00 (12) it equals $13, 920.00 a year. Respectfully, let’s not forget Uncle Sam must get his portion of those earnings. This phenomenon contributes to poverty. First, we must become more vocal about education and how it’s rewarding socially, politically and economically. Second, we must advocate increasing minimum wages, and how it will reduce poverty and allow health care insurance. Finally, we must learn the value of saving and investing money. How do you value a dollar, 10 dollars, 20 dollars or even 100 dollars?

If you would like to learn more about how to increase your salary, save your money and rise from this recession please check out the following:

http://www.suzeorman.com/, http://www.cramers-mad-money.com/ and http://www.daveramsey.com/.

So the next time you think about blessing someone with money, receiving money or even saving to invest money please take some quality time to think about what your money can really do for you.