With economic challenges clawing at the door, I am reminded of those things I learned from earlier generations that lived through the depression. 

Family is important - the picture of my grandfather's family was one taken (most likely) in the 1910's before the depression.  This farming family knew that frugality was just a way of survival.  They were proud of how ingenous and resourceful they were... growing everything they ate, curing hams for the winter.  These people were dependent on everyone pulling together as one unit. 

You reap what you sow, but never in the same season - As a farming family, preparation for harvest takes place months and sometimes years before the big harvest.  These people understood that a good return took time and was not immediate. Invest wisely.

Work hard, regardless your status - My great-grandmother is in the foreground of this picture around the cotton looms.  Oddly enough, she and her sisters were ladies that were taught all the graces of being ladies.  However, here's an example that even ladies didn't shy away from hard work during that time.

Respond with kindness - Stories of this 'lady' were ones of southern gentility, honesty, and kindness.  The motto I take away from her wisdom passed along during that era... 'Kill'em with kindness'.  Regardless of what happens or how you are treated, respond with kindness.

These principles are timeless.  Can you imagine if these were practiced broadly across this country, and more specifically in Washington and on Wall Street?