Curbing the Need to Consume

What up, Fam?

By the time you read this post, you'll be excitedly (dismally?) reacting over the 21-Day Financial Fast with Y.A.M.  Me?  I'm a proud supporter and co-convener of the "Excited" Ministry, and for good reason.

As a nine-year New Yorker and worker, I've spent more than I have earned.  I have used credit cards like they're NSA gifts from the fairy god-mother or God himself.  And (...and!), I have barely saved a penny, let alone a dime.    401K, 403b, IRA, Roth?  *clears throat*  

So with this fast, I am praying a few things for myself - and YOU!

- To break the consuming cycle (mama LOVES to spend!)
- To develop a natural *gag* reflex at the mere thought of unnecessarily spending dollars
- To cultivate an air of enthusiasm and excitement at the thought of saving money...because - after all - this dame will no longer be spending it unnecessarily (*runs around the sanctuary; rolls the aisles; shouts*)
- To pay off my debt at superhuman, Christ-like speed, while building toward my future.

I have tons of other financial goals as well, but let me keep it basic.  After all, this forum is about us and this journey and four us!  So Desiree and I hope you will comment and share your goals, dreams, challenges, and daily victories, too.

Transparency + Community = Growth.

A few thoughts until tomorrow...

Washington Post columnist Michelle Singletary has covered the 21-Day Financial Fast at length and participated in it via an outreach program with her home church.

About the 21-Day sacrifice, she writes:

"The fast is really about curbing the need to consume."

"Debt is dangerous. When you are in debt, you are beholden to someone else."

Chew on those golden nuggets until tomorrow.  
Rachel & Desiree
PS - and don't forget to email fcbc.yam@gmail.com by Thursday if you are indeed going to take the plunge with us!