Frozen in the headlights.

I’ve been keeping up with the commentary on the unfolding storm.  One of the things I’ve noticed is that there is a definite tendency to go a little apocalyptic, in feel if not in explicit content.  It’s all too easy to get frozen in the headlights of the oncoming storm, with the feeling that we will be torn apart, a wrecked destitute society.

I’m of the opinion that this will be a huge challenge for us, and that our lifestyles will change.  The general phrase used is that our standard of living must come down.  I was talking on the phone to a very old and dear friend last night and something we agreed on has bubbled to the surface of my mind.  Most of the things we take for granted, could be described as “frivolous”.  CDs, DVDs, Playstations, large wardrobes, flashy cars and I’m sure that each reader can add to this list with your own examples.

So… Let’s re-examine it.  Given the above, how far does our quality of life really fall now?  Granted, access to medical treatment is an issue, but with the reduction of car use and a corresponding increase in our activity level shouldn’t we be generally healthier?

If a lot of what we are going to lose is our illusions and largely unimportant frivolities, how far will our “standard of living” really fall?  I honestly believe that we can rise to this.  Perhaps if we accept that we might just gain a sustainable, ethical way of life, coupled with my own belief that this change will bring opportunities for those prepared to forge ahead.  Could it be that our perception of our “standard of living” needs a reassessment?  I don’t have the answers right now, but as a correspondant once said of me, I tend to ask the questions and try to provoke my readers to think.

Guess what I’m doing now…..