Could you survive in poverty?

In my recent public policy readings I came across this test of being able to survive in poverty:

Can you agree with these statements?:

1. I know which churches and sections of town have the best rummage sales.
2. I know which rummage sales have "bag sales" and when.
3. I know which grocery stores' garbage bins can be accessed for thrown-away food.
4. I know how to get someone out of jail.
5. I know how to physically fight and defend myself physically.
6. I know how to get a gun, even if I have a police record.
7. I know how to keep my clothes from being stolen at the Laundromat.
8. I know what problems to look for in a used car.
9. I know how to live without a checking account.
10. I know how to live without electricity and a phone.
11. I know how to use a knife as scissors.
12. I can entertain a group of friends with my personality and my stories.
13. I know what to do when I don't have money to pay the bills.
14. I know how to move in half a day.
15. I know how to get and use food stamps or an electronic card for benefits.
16. I know where the free medical clinics are.
17. I am very good at trading and bartering.
18. I can get by without a car.

From A Framework for Understanding Poverty by Ruby K. Payne, Ph.D

Goodbye to The West Wing

Last Sunday I finished watching The West Wing. The seven seasons filled my evenings for nearly six months. This is freeing, yet slightly depressing. My evenings will no longer be filled with political drama that coincides with present day happenings, but, hey, I might feel the need to leave my house more, and my friends will appreciate my being able to talk about something besides The West Wing.

To fill my void I've developed a week long reading schedule to keep me busy. It's as follows:

Mondays: Philosophy night

Tuesdays: Public Policy Issue night

Wednesdays: Whatever book most interests me at the moment

Thursdays: Theatrical/Great Author nights

Fridays: Biography night

Saturdays/Sundays: Study nights (languages, GRE, etc.)