Marcus Briscoe
Staff writer
I went to Colorado Springs, this past weekend with my girlfriend and her parents to see Dave Ramsey.
Yes, that Dave Ramsey, who is a bestselling author and host of national radio and television show on finances.
It was a planned trip. I knew what I was getting myself into.
However, I did not know I would actually enjoy Dave Ramsey’s words of wisdom on a topic that has more relevance than ever before: money.
More than 7,000 people filled the World Arena for the “ My Total Money Makeover” event.
There were more than 200 people selling Dave’s books and merchandise.
Behind the platform, there were three projector screens that would make most rock stars jealous. In front of the arena there was an 18-wheeled truck with Dave Ramsey’s face plastered on each side of the truck.
By the time Ramsey began the five hour-long speaking engagement, I was over it and ready to leave. All the hoopla surrounding it was too much for me. Then to top it off, the first words that comes out of Ramsey’s mouth: “What I teach is common sense. A system our grandparents used. That’s what I teach.”
That’s not exactly what I was hoping to hear from this financial guru. Common sense?
But I started to get interested when Ramsey said something I have always believed, but never put into as clear thought.
“Money will make you more of what you are. So if you are a jerk and get rich quick, you will become more of a jerk. If you are a giving person and get rich quick, you will become a philanthropist.”
During the five-hour event, Ramsey made a lot of sense, and was entertaining doing it. No matter who you are or how old you are.
Me being in the position I am, almost out of college, I got kind of excited about my future if I followed just some of his advice.
Ramsey’s biggest point he makes is never getting in debt. He gives you advice on how to get out of debt, but also advises people to never get into debt.
He believes we should be living within our means.
When we want something, we save up the money for it and pay cash. Kind of like our great grandparents did.
My favorite part was close to the end when he spoke about his faith in Jesus.
Sincerely believing that our own faith will help us get through any money problems that come arise.
I think investing in Dave Ramsey’s materials and living by his advice will benefit everyone, especially those of us about to start our careers.
We need to be in control of where our money is going, and keep in check that we do not have to live up our neighbor’s standards.
So, for those of you thinking about spending more on that credit card or getting that new car that is out of you price range, think about what Dave Ramsey’s says about living within your means for the betterment of your future.
“Live like no one else, so one day you can live like no one else.”