This phrase has got to go, “Its the economy or well you how the economy is or we just cant do it in this economy” This is self defeating and dangerous. It will only drag us down. Let the recession take its course, we will have a “correction” and move forward. Do you really think we should just close the doors of America and simply say we are out of business? We are the economy and if the self fulfilling prophecy has any merit we will hit rock bottom. Please recall that it is our own behaviors that got us into this mess. No one made you buy a home that you cant afford with a loan that you do not understand.  Not one government has ever been able to legislate personal responsibility. Look in the mirror and realize that it is up to you to stand up and take the bull by the horns. What amazing opportunities there are out there. Take it and run with it.  We will all realize that yes, loans will be old fashioned and boring. So what. You cannot live beyond your means anymore, Great. You may actually have to save money for the item you want, gee how revolutionary.