A Simple Math Education in Common Sense

A few years ago I registered for a class thatToday when I mailed a package at the post office, I
promised to teach coupon clippers how to save moresaw the same stamp kit for 20 stamps but this kit sold
money. One of the first lessons taught in the classfor $24.95. The only difference in the packages was
was to be observant and search for bargains in thethe picture which represented 44 cent stamps instead
back of the store. The instructor said, "Begin yourof 42 cent stamps. It was the same product but twice
search at the lowest rack on the shelf and finish withas expensive as the first kit I found on the clearance
the top shelf after you've scanned all of the shelves."shelf.
I remember those words of wisdom. Just a week agoNeedless to say I returned to the office supply store
I was shopping for office supplies and scanned theand immediately walked to the clearance section. I
clearance shelf for hidden treasures at bargain prices.found five packages exactly like the package I
My eyes stopped on a box for custom stamps. Thepurchased last week so I took immediate action and
retail price was $19.99 and the clearance price waspurchased all five packages. It was as if I had seen
$11.50. As I read the contents of the kit and thesomething that other people had overlooked.
directions, I was struck with the question, "Why areYou may be wondering why I would be willing to pay
these stamp kits on the clearance shelf?"58 cents for stamps when I can buy them for 44
My decision to purchase one box of twenty stampscents. My reason is simple. The stamps I order will be
was out of curiosity. Twenty stamps for $11.50my choice rather than standard post office stamps. I
seemed like a reasonable price for 1st class postage.saw the idea and opportunity to create a unique
Instead of 44 cents per stamp, the cost would be 58product for a minimal investment.
cents. It was a small price to pay for custom stampsJust a few days ago I read an article in a local
where I could select one of my own photos as thenewspaper, Words of Wisdom. One of the quotes
face of the stamp.caught my attention and my hope is that it will also
With my laptop and stamp kit, I immediately went tocause you to think.
work after I arrived home. When I typed in the"Some people dream of success, while others wake
promotional code for the kit and proceeded to theup and word hard at it." It seemed to be a generic
checkout page, the final price due was zero. Thestatement upon first glance, however, as I thought
stamps I ordered were 44 cent stamps even thoughabout it I realized a deeper meaning.
the kit indicated 42 cents. That's when I realized whyIdeas and dreams are catalysts for opportunities. The
the stamp kits were in the clearance section.question that remains is this one. Will you take the next
Apparently a quick decision had been made to clearstep beyond where you are to think for yourself or will
out the old products and restock the shelves with newyou be satisfied to let others think for you?
products.