Good News/Bad News

Only The Lord could come home with this marvelous opening line: People aren't dying anymore.

The Lord had lunch the other day with a business colleague whose brother is in the funeral business. Turns out the brother's business is down. "Down?" I said, somewhat incredulously since I read the obituary page everyday and frankly, that page is still going strong.

"Well, maybe not down, " said The Lord. "But people are definitely not having big funerals. It's all cremation."

So we're dying but we're not being laid to rest in velvet-lined coffins. Mon Dieu! Even the little things like an elegant send-off is being impacted by the recession.

So here's an opportunity: Despite the deluge of bad news, look for a way to create a little elegance in your life. When everyone is sending email thank you notes, break out the box of blind-embossed note cards and send it by mail. When meeting an old friend for lunch, grab the check. Wear a skirt and heels even if you're working from home. Let people know you're thinking of them.

And when everyone is going to the hereafter in a cardboard box, put away a little sum each week to ensure you travel in something deluxe. Or leave your credit card number with a friend -- she'll get the miles!