A Comment.

Something happened earlier this week that both disturbed and offended me. I've thought about it and the more I do, the more bothered I am. Let's talk about it today.

Let me preface by saying that I'm not the type of person to get easily offended. That's a rarity in today's world, I know. But generally speaking, I am not one to be bothered by the things people say. But I was told something earlier this week that, in light of the efforts I am making towards paying off my debts, truly disturbed me. As you all know, I paid off the remainder of my doctors' bills this week. It was a huge relief and I am so excited to be done with this part of my debt.

As I went to the hospital to pay my bill, cash in hand, I was met with strange looks by the clerks handling my account. I told them I was there to pay my bill in full and that I was looking forward to not having this burden anymore. One of the ladies said to me: "Most people just let this sort of thing go to their credit. That's what you should have done." Hold up. Did I just hear these words come from a person who was taking money from me? I was not pleased to hear this. I told her that I am not most people, I don't enjoy having debt, and I have excellent credit and refuse to ruin it. My husband chimed in too, saying that eventually we want to buy another house, and something like this could wreck that for us.

Guys, this type of thinking is toxic when it comes to paying off debt. I know that not everyone can afford to do what we did, but there is no reason to ruin your credit by dismissing your bills. I live in a part of the country where poverty is high and people take on more than they can handle financially. Sometimes it is the only option, but often it isn't. Your health is important, and by all means if something is wrong you should tend to it. But be smart. Work out a payment plan if that's what it takes. But please, don't set yourself up for financial ruin by allowing your credit to be wrecked. That doesn't help in the long run.

I realize that not everyone has this mindset, and that's fine. Going debt-free is not an easy road, and not a decision that many care to make. But regardless of what your opinion is, please don't encourage others to go further into debt.

This is really all I have on the matter. I hope it gives you something to think about and I hope that you all are making steps to reach a debt-free life as well!

--chloe.