Well, that took a turn. Sorry to hear that! I love how picking/making a new together is becoming slightly more common that in earlier decades.

Right?! Who is cutting onions, damnit. Another example of looking for the helpers, per Mr. Rogers.

Tell me about it. The discipline it takes to not consume something the general public has been consuming as the norm is a struggle sometimes, but tasting the flavors I otherwise wouldn’t notice from something not deathly sweetened is a plus. As well as better teeth. My parents also restricted sweet drinks to family trips and parties growing up, and I don’t think I can thank them enough.

Yep, racists are going to be racist.

Increasing one’s credit [score] is helpful for when citizens want to make large purchases/transactions, such as getting a homeowner’s loan and car, in the US. Having lower credit is an indicator to banks that one is not “trustworthy” with their (bank’s) money. And with property prices soaring and most salaries stuck in the 60s (I may be exaggerating a little, haven’t checked exact numbers lately), it’s hard not to NEED a loan for those. Direct debit is nice to have, but there are advantages to credit cards if the user is wise with their money/credit knowledgeable. It’s systemic.