Do you know what your interest rate is?

Humbly, I just did a piece on the CBS News with Katie Couric. Because my husband has a credit website, Oskie.com, CBS contacted him about credit card issues that are arising now with the economy falling. Anyway, this had just happened to us with his business card that he has had for 9 years. They suddenly lowered his credit limit and raised the interest rate. We closed it out and went to Ascend, the Credit Union, where we do all our banking and opened up a card with them. As I sat at our dining room table speaking with the producer from CBS, answering basic questions about how all of this had occurred...I wondered how many couples have no idea what they owe, what bills they pay each month, what they spend on food, just exactly where the money is going. I feel it is a vital part of a working, breathing, growing relationship to talk about all aspects of your family situation. There shouldn't be hidden areas. Real communication begins with letting the assumptions go, the expectations dropped, the intolerance gone. When you realize more couples divorce over money issues....where is the focus? Our money is simply a gift from above. Now, my husband does work hard and I work hard at the hospital, but the blessings that occur from our labour are from God. He has given us sharp minds, strong bodies and a passion in our hearts to enjoy our careers. Today, take a step closer to your spouse. Talk about your finances. Lay it out on the dining room table. Ask questions. Take notes. Be aware. Know where you are in mortgage payments, interest rates, savings account, electricity bill, how much cheer leading is costing. There is no excuse for not being informed. Now, I'm not saying take the job away from your husband or wife. Some individuals take pride in handling the finances and that is okay, but it is also important to be prepared should you need to change roles. Is money really the largest influence on failed marriages? NO. It is a result of taking the focus off of God, who really does consider marriage an important institution, a serious agreement between two people. When one looks to God for an understanding of what the real interest rate is....you know it is 100%. You must be committed to God, to each other, know each other, talk about the small, simple stuff and guess what? There won't be any BIG ISSUES or overdue payments. You will be paid in full. Merry Christmas. Hold hands with the one you love tonight, on the couch, before you go to sleep. Make a commitment. Who knows? You may lower your credit card interest rate when you raise your interest in your marriage.