NO, the Sky is not Falling

Really, it kinda feels like it. We have a horrible war between Russia and Ukraine which is killing thousands of innocent civilians and threatens to escalate. We’re still trying to get over the Pandemic.

Sure it’s not falling?

And we have high inflation which no one seems to be able to control. Oh, and 2/3’s of the kids in the public school system in the 3rd grade still can’t read proficiently. 1/3 don’t even know the alphabet.

Sure it’s really not falling?

And now what’s all this about a banking crisis? I thought we did that in 2008/2009. I could go on with other challenges and obstacles but I won’t because

No, the Sky is NOT falling

Sure if you’re a pessimist you could look at all that’s going on and paint a pretty bleak picture. However, if you choose to be an optimist and have a Growth Mindset, as I do and strongly recommend, you’d still conclude

Our Best Days are Ahead

For example, while the Russian war against Ukraine is horrible, it is absolutely amazing and uplifting to see how committed, resilient and capable the people of Ukraine are. This is truly a David against Goliath story and I’m pulling for David and I think they will win (and look how the free world is rallying to their support).

And this so called banking crisis: this is Not a banking crisis in my view. Yes we have a very small number of cases where very poor strategies or business models have failed under pressure. But this happens in all areas of business. While it’s very unfortunate, it’s reassuring that we have a very strong, safe and resilient banking system. Since 2008 banks are substantially stronger with more capital, liquidity and diversification. And remember we have the FDIC which insures all deposits under $250,000 and the government has essentially guaranteed all deposits of failing banks like in recent cases. So, the banking system is fine in my view, even though there are some lessons to be learned; kinda like life in general.

And, on a personal note, I am proud and blessed to have been a banker for almost 50 years. Like so many other professions, bankers work very hard to make their communities better places to live for everyone; one loan, one deposit, one charitable cause, one client at a time.

Here’s my point: The Sky is Not Falling. Life brings us some days like diamonds and some like stones. We shouldn’t overreact when we face challenges and run around looking for someone to blame.

A better response is to look at the reality: what’s so and so what. We’re going through a rough patch, you may be personally, with some real problems. But typically problems are Opportunities dressed in work clothes. Like my Dad used to say: “don’t stand around and complain, get your hands out of your pockets and Do Something to Help.”

While the Sky is Not Falling, people all around us need help. Give the gift of a Big Smile to everyone. May God continue to bless you and your family.