My father always taught my siblings and me to live within our means.  Growing up we never bought anything or went anywhere unless we had the money in the bank to pay the bill.  All credit card expenditures were to be paid off monthly and paying the mortgage off quickly was a high priority.  My parents grew up during the Depression.  Like so many, they knew firsthand what it was like to lose everything their family worked for and built.  It was important for them as they rebuilt their lives to have security.  I am happy that I was able…