The world has become self absorbed in the last decade. Americans especially in the technological age of cell phones, computers and the Internet except to work, do not have to leave their houses or interact with their neighbors. In my rural area I haven't seen people for years mow their yards, wash their cars, or even do house repairs or maintenance.

    I'm from the old days when that was life's entertainment in a farm community. When I mow my lawn or work in my garden or paint my buildings the mere existence of someone actually working outside draws a crowd. It's as impressive as a UFO landing.

I was never one to see positive from many negatives. I tend to be over cautious in finding much good in times when it's hard to keep your head above water. Every day the news reminds you of those that serve in the military and their hardships and the sacrifice their families make for all of us civilians, The long drawn out political fiasco's and the bad state of the housing market and economy in general. Add to it the staggering energy cost's and the price of non luxury food items. The price of oil influences nearly everything we do or consume. Few if any see any big changes in the near future. The reality is it will get worse before it gets better.

All of that said, I have noticed something in my local area that is positive and the bad economy has fueled on this new attitude. People are starting to stay home in the evenings and weekends. Trips for the most part are out. People are outside getting to know their neighbors, getting exercise, improving their properties, and falling back to the old American way of life. I see a resurgence in gardens and orchards. Pride in ones property and just better manners overall. People are thinking "green" and the days of being wasteful are gone.

I see my local merchants taking the time to talk to you and thank you for your patronage, They tell you to wait until their big sale comes around in a few days. Car dealers to get your business will now happily come to your house and pick up your car. Doctors will schedule your appointment so you can go to an office closer to your house. My local convenience store weekly features a local animal that needs surgery and accepts donations to help defray the cost. I get apologies from my local postmaster for the excessive fee's and better general service. Business's appreciate you when you walk in the door. Internet companies offer better service in the slow times.

So with all that is negative today in this world. Hard times maybe exactly what the Doctor ordered for us all to be better human beings.