I recently read that nearly half of us could not come up with $400 to cover an emergency expense.

[Atticus]

That's why my blood pressure spikes when I see some of the commercials on TV: for $60,000 vehicles, services for "wealth management", luxury resorts and cruises and, my "favorite", the BDO ad about how best to hand down your 4,000 acre vineyard to your daughter.

How must an unemployed dad or strapped single mom feel about having salt rubbed into their wounds?

[uponit7771]

1. K&R, and most don't have enough savings for any 1000 + dollar expense

[IluvPitties]

2. Well said. Most Americans have very little savings and are struggling.

I hate to say it, but I am in that group.

[LisaM]

3. Ugh. I had a dog once that needed an $800 surgery.

I couldn't come up with it right away, and had to borrow it for two weeks (and my friend leaned on me to get it back). After that, I felt discouraged about adopting a dog, but I always made sure I could could take care of one.

[kacekwl]

4. I'm in the same boat

but remember it's not what you have that makes you happy. I have for now a roof over my head and food to eat. Many more don't have that and that's a crime anywhere let alone in in the USA.