At this time of the year, we normally do a lot of recollection. We look at 2004, think of where we are today, and hope that this year will be a better one.

Invariably, we look at the road ahead. How far ahead we look is a matter of orientation and perspective – one year, two years, five years and so on. It seems to depend on our confidence to look far into the future. It depends on how we view the road, with all its ups and downs, smoothness
and bumps.

We think about the things which might have been. We think of our achievements as well as our disappointments. In the realm of the economy, we assess whether we are earning better and
if we are able to invest in a better future – in our careers or in business. We think about the efforts we wasted, our losses and gains.

The happenings that affected us will certainly include increasing prices - from the food that we consume, to electricity, water, transport fares and more. As of end of November 2004 inflation was already 7.6% exceeding the 5.3% of November, 2003.

The greatest challenge confronting most of us is how to earn more than what we spend especially when prices are rising.

Cutting on expenses is an option. Spending on what is necessary and not on anything we like is the order of the day. We need to balance our budget.

When calamities hit the nation, our problems are compounded. We want to move fast and forward, but there are just a lot of factors blocking our way or putting a lot of weight on our shoulders so that we can hardly move.

Our individual experiences will differ, but what is constant is our desire to move fast forward.