In these hard times, appreciating simple joys and even going back to basics are some of the ways by which one can get by. The economic headwinds that the world seems to have experienced in 2008 and 2009 may have signaled a shift in the paradigm of modern living as we know it  and highlight the need to adapt in lifestyles and attitude consistent with the changing times.

Whatever the word one may use to describe - austerity, frugality, practicality, belt-tightening, “acute income deficiency syndrome”, or simply cash-starved state - the main point is one geared towards self-preservation yet still allowing for growth to occur. Some of the measures to take may include:
- shift to a more gas-efficient car or a cheaper mode of transport
- change in wardrobe or style
- availing of discounts such as those via coupons
- use of internet telephony via internet phones (eg, paying one low monthly fee to make unlimited calls to landlines , any time, any day with Skype)
- modifying other aspects of expense

Of course, there will be trade-offs. But then, back to basics via living on a budget and more importantly, within your means, is a much better alternative to entirely denying fundamental elements of nurturing the body and mind. With creative and positive thinking to back our activities, the task should be approached on a more doable level.

Some of the internet phone services may be either via phone-to-phone, personal computer (PC) to phone, or PC to PC.

Among the internet phone providers include (and not limited to) the following:
FreeWebCall
GoogleTalk
iConnectHere
MediaRing
MSN
net2phone
PalTalk
PC2Call
Skype
Visitalk
WowRing
Yahoo! Voice

In particular, VOIP via PC to Phone has gained ground and greater acceptance as more and more people realize the benefits of internet telephony. There are providers that allow individuals to make free telephone calls, such as via programs that enable one to call anywhere in the world for free on the 3 Skypephone. There are also other programs wherein ultra-cheap or inexpensive rates  are applied to those on landlines or regular cell phones almost anywhere around the world (as appropriate with local telecommunications regulations).

Internet telephony via application of Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) refers to the delivery of voice communications over the Internet. with VOIP systems interfacing with conventional public switched telephone networks (PSTNs) to allow for transparent phone communications worldwide.  In a play of words, there is nothing phony with internet telephony as it can translate to real savings, especially when used appropriately.

Equipment for making online phone calls via VOIP include:
- Broadband or high-speed internet connection such as by cable or DSL)
- Computers (eg, Fujitsu Computers), which may require appropriate software or microphone
- Adaptors
- Specialized phones (some VOIP services may only work over a computer or a special VOIP internet phones; while some may provide services via conventional phones connected to VOIP adapters)

Terms of services, such as those related to rates for local and/or long distance calls (including flat rates anywhere or depending on the number of minutes used),  may depend on the account details with a specific internet phone provider.  Some internet phone providers offer their services for free, but may be limited to other subscribers to their service.  For example, with Skype you can make free calls over the Internet. Skype – the whole world can talk for free

A schematic diagram of how internet telephony via VOIP works is provided.

For more information, especially for those in the US, one can go at the fcc,gov website.

Our time is characteristically marked by new technology and modern machinery. Generally, our lives have generally changed for the better because of these advances. Yet there are moments when we need to pause and reassess if all of the great new stuff are worth having.

There are certain things that may be considered as priceless or paramount. One of these is the value of the process of nurturing.  For example, farmers know that a good harvest is usually to be expected when the necessary preparations (eg, harrowing the soil prior to sowing the seeds) and maintenance (eg, watering, applying fertilizers, etc) had been judiciously done. Of course, external factors like weather have also to be in alignment for successful outcomes.

And of course, nurturing is key to both physical and mental well-being. Regular dose of healthy living (diet and exercise) cannot be overemphasized. There is also the concept of “atrophy of disuse” so we have to flex, stretch , and bend those muscles!  Learning is a continuous  process of discovery, sometimes on a trial and error basis.   Isn’t it wonderful when we learn how to use new technology devices, including GPS  (global positioning systems), digital cameras, video camcorders, and other modern gadgets?  Notably, the cost of communication has gone down from before, thanks to internet phones and phone cards.  For example, ComFi phone cards provide lowest long distance rates around the globe.

The internet has provided us with easy access to all this wealth of knowledge. With proper utilization, the number of opportunities for nurturing and communications - as enhanced and amplified by information from the internet - should continue to rise each day.

So much has happened since the internet revolution came into our lives. However, the full benefits of the web, including internet phones, remain to be realized. Undeniably, the internet has opened the doors of the communication - to get people connected - across geographic boundaries and among peoples across nations.

Wherever one may be in the world - North America, South America, Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, or Antarctica - communications is vital to effective interaction. People talking, instead of fighting, over positions is good. Great ideas start from great minds but also need the input of others to percolate and eventually to translate into action with a critical mass to have a significant impact.

The potential for a better world is there.  It is up to all of us to make best use of the opportunities and tools and new technology that allow cheaper calls and more rapid exchange of ideas.  For example,  unlimited calls to landlines with Skype can be availed of.