[originaltext]M: Hi, Nancy. Could I borrow some money until payday?W: Uh, yeah

M: Hi, Nancy. Could I borrow some money until payday?
W: Uh, yeah, I guess. How are things going anyway?
M: Well, not very well. I’ve used my credit cards to pay off a lot of things recently, but now, I can’t seem to pay the money off.
W: Uh, do you have a budget? I mean, how do you keep track of your income and expenses?
M: No, but I guess I should have some financial plans.
W: Well, let me see if I can help you. How much money do you spend on your apartment?
M: Uh, I pay $890 on rent for the studio apartment downtown, not including utilities and cable TV. But the place has an awesome view of the city.
W: Uh, $890! Why are you paying so much for such a small place, when you could find a cheaper one somewhere outside of the downtown area?
M: Yeah, I guess.
W: How much money do you spend on entertainment a month?
M: Well, I spend a few dollars here and there on basketball and movie tickets, a concert or two, and ballroom dance lessons.
W: Uh, exactly how much do you spend on all of these?
M: Well, oh...about $400.
W: No wonder you’re having money problems. You can’t just blow your money on things like that! And what about transportation?
M: Oh, I commute to work everyday in my new sports car, but I got a great deal, and my monthly payments are only $450.
W: Well, I think you’ve got to reduce your spending, or you’ll end up broke. I suggest you get rid of your credit cards, cut down on your entertainment expenses, and sell your car. Take public transportation from now on.