Economic Limbo - How low can you go?

The word Limbo is being used in many conversations these days regarding the economy, both in the United States and abroad. Webster defines the 14th Century word of Middle English origin (Medieval Latin) as 1: An abode of souls that are according to Roman Catholic theology barred from heaven because of not having received Christian Baptism. 2a: a place or state of restraint or confinement b: a place or state of neglect or oblivion c: an intermediate or transitional place or state d: a state of uncertainty.

No matter which definition you chose: An abode of souls barred from heaven, restrained, confined, neglected, in transition or just in a state of uncertainty; being in limbo is not fun. Rarely if ever does someone volunteer themselves for a life of restraint or ambiguity. Most prefer to enjoy the great comfort and confidence that protection and security provide. Use of this word to describe our current economic downturn is quite correct. It accurately presents a whole slew of emotions that the vast majority of Americans are feeling. It reveals a core desire of us all, the need to feel safe and unrestrained. In this case, safely secure in our finances and unrestrained, allowed to grow and produce.

Limbo is also a dance that originated on the island of Trinidad, though Hawaii is often mistakenly associated with limbo. The limbo dancer moves to a Caribbean music beat, then leans backward and dances under a horizontal stick without touching it. Upon touching it or falling backwards, the dancer is "out". When several dancers compete, they travel in single file, and the stick is gradually lowered until only one dancer — who has not touched either the stick or the floor — remains. This variant of the word is much more fun and quite lively, yet when played out till the end, still involves the inevitable fall of the dancer.

Each of these definitions describes a time-limited process. Each will eventually lead to some end, either good or bad. As our nation and the world dance along in this fragile and weakened economy, there is a widespread concern over just how this limbo dance will end. Will we reside in a State of restraint and confinement, not allowed or motivated to grow and produce? Is this a temporary transition state that we will emerge from with new beauty and vigor as a butterfly does from its cocoon? Or are we destined for a State of sure and certain troubled souls.

The music is playing. Can you hear it?

How low can you go? How low can you go? How low can you go?