Commercials. When I have a choice I fast forward through them. I always skip them when I watch a program that I've recorded, unless I need a snack from the kitchen or take a much needed bathroom break.
Lately, I've been seeing a lot of commercials that have to do with getting out of debt or how to legally file for bankruptcy. These are usually paid for by lawyers who make it sound so easy- just give them a call. Potentially there is no up-front fee or no fee unless they have success in winning your case. If I am looking to get out of debt or to have any luck in a bankruptcy filing I appreciate not having to pay an up-front fee or any fee at all if I am successful. That's why I'm calling- I can't pay or am having a hard time paying at all.
A few years ago, many people were talking about changes being made to the law that would make it more difficult to obtain a bankruptcy. Mainly, because a few years ago it seemed that many folks were filing for bankruptcy at an alarming rate. Now it seems as if those days are back again.
Why is it so easy again? Is it acceptable because of the stalled economy? Have the rules changed yet again? Is it okay to not keep our commitments? Is there a greater violation in not keeping a promise to a person than to a company? A promise is still a promise, right?
Circumstances change. Sometimes you get thrown a curve. Life happens. But, no matter what; if we've made a commitment, regardless of circumstance, we always try to maintain those, don't we?
I am really annoyed with these commercial breaks in my regularly scheduled broadcasts. And, they are incessant. As a realtor, I would love an advertising budget like that.
My point is this; I believe that we should keep our promises and our obligations. I also understand that sometimes you can't. We are experiencing a time in our history that certainly is unprecedented. I bemoan the fact that there is double digit unemployment. We continue to hear about an economy that needs government to prop it up to keep it from crashing. Sure, this all adds to the uncertainty. Who knows how long our country can go on this way? There used to be a stigma associated with avoiding paying your bills. Of course that's a perception that's outside of you. It just goes to show you how easily a good or bad idea can get inside your head.
I just wish that they (the advertisers) didn't try and make it seem so easy to do. I know, they need to make a living too! But, they don't talk about the negative consequences. They aren't good.
Life happens. I know. It does for you and it does for me too. But, if you, or someone you know watches these advertisements and may be swayed by the possibility of getting out of debt or successfully filing for bankruptcy- ask them if they've considered the cost. And, I know, sometimes that's your only choice.
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