We are currently experiencing a severe economic recession—one that portends extremely difficult times ahead It is true that some people prosper whether it is good times or bad times—although even they face hard challenges

The war is on—that is the war against the ravaging force of deflation “Economists” declare that an all out effort must be made to eradicate that demon known as deflation

Everyday we are swamped with bad news The deluge of unwanted news arrives in the form of bank failures, old established financial firms biting the dust, stock markets plunging, precipitous drops in consumer spending, unemployment soaring, etc

Economic illusions are running amuck Sound economic reasoning is difficult to come by

"What the World Needs Now Is Love" a song written by Hal David and Burt Bacharach, performed by Jackie DeShannon, was a top 10 song during the summer of 1965 It captures the “love” movement of the 60’s

Success philosophers and gurus advocate “going the extra mile” as a prerequisite for accumulating riches They claim that only the individual who gives more than he is receives—or is willing to put in the extra effort without any immediate returns reaps the benefits of success and prosperity

Western Civilization is crumbling under the burdensome weight of destructive social ideas and false moralities And the crushing weight continues to increase—day after day

The last work Ayn Rand planned before her death in 1982 was a series of essays released as the book “Philosophy: Who Needs It” Her conclusion is that everyone needs philosophy

In the song “Pilgrim” Enya beautifully sings about a philosophy of being—a metaphysical way to joyously live your life The second verse reveals timeless wisdom

Many people have pondered the question: What is the meaning of life—why are we here After much reflection, most conclude that this question is unanswerable