You are right, Miss Kitty, there are many unanticipated circumstances that cause people to fall into debt. Unfortunately, these circumstances are the exception. Due to many of our circumstances it probably seems like the norm.

Most debt is primarily people living waaaay beyond their means. Many want to keep up with the neighbours and don't know how or don't care to save for what they want. I am amazed by how many people have to have the latest gadgets, handbags, shoes, jeans or whatever the stars are wearing and throw it on their credit cards to worry about it later. Who can really afford that stuff - $1,000+ handbags for everyday people?

If there were not so many defaulting on their credit cards with lame excused perhaps the companies would show more compasion to those that need it.