Over the past several months, we’ve watched our economy go from bad to worse. We’ve all been hit to some degree by loss – whether it’s our job, our retirement savings, our home’s market value, or all of the above. More than anything, it may be the threat to our sense of identity — as individuals and as a nation — that hurts the most.  If I’m not this and I don’t have that, then who am I? And by the way, what was all of that about?

Any apparent setback or disappointment in life offers an opportunity for reflection and reassessment. In light of the global financial crisis, the question of the day is, “how did we get so off-track? What happened?” The T.V. pundits are kicking this topic around day and night lately. But I’ve heard these same questions asked in a variety of forms by parents on playgrounds and at dinner parties for several years now. And I’m sure those conversations began long before I became privy to them.

If the first question is, “how did we get here?” Then the next logical inquiry should be, “so how do we get out?” And what I’m hearing from parents is that they want (and oftentimes need) to simplify. More than ever, they’ve started questioning this complicated, consumer-driven culture that we’ve created. 

What may have begun as thought-provoking playground conversation has been elevated to Code Red kitchen-table talk. It’s time to scale back and zero-in on the real important stuff in life. It’s time to start paying attention. 

We may not be able to control some of the larger financial issues that face our country, but we can make inroads towards significant change in the overall health of our families and our communities.  

I think that four-fold living (introduced by William H. Danforth in the 1931 publication of his book, I Dare You!) is a good place to start. If we become more deliberate about what we invite into our lives, then I think that we’ll be happier with what comes out. Here’s a quick breakdown of Danforth’s four folds, as I think they apply in today’s world:

Nourish Your Mind  

There is so much negative information out there that leaves us feeling fearful and anxious. If we calm our minds and choose to look for positive, hopeful messages, then we’re going to lead happier, more fulfilling lives.

Respect Your Body  

It’s obvious that our culture has become a bit body-conscious in recent decades. Instead of obsessing about how our bodies look, we really should be focusing on how they feel. Do we have the strength, energy, and stamina to enjoy life to the fullest? 

Grow Your Spirit  

This is such an easy part of ourselves to neglect, but it’s really the most important. When we’re spiritually centered, then we’ll experience peace of mind, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of optimism. 

Invest in Your Community  

The people in your world are what give life meaning. We can get so distracted by all of the other “stuff” that takes up so much of our time (jobs, errands, obligations). But we have to make service to others (friends, family, neighbors) a priority.