This week, two women at my company rejoiced in the fact that Friday was pay day. The jubilation was short lived, however, because they then realized and related that every cent would have to be used toward their mounting heap of bills. I find it utterly disturbing that people are so deep in the hole as to be unable to put any money into savings. People who find themselves in such dire financial straits tend to be undisciplined when it comes to saving money. To be fair, certain unfavorable life circumstances some people face at a young age -- from parents getting divorced to an unexpected pregnancy to drug abuse -- don't exactly plant the seeds for financial prosperity. But I have no pity for those who are in such a pickle as a result of reckless spending habits. I've beaten this topic to death on my blog, but it's worth repeating: One should always strive to live within -- or, even better, below -- his or her means. If money is tight, stay in and cook rather tha...