Frugal, Frugal, Frugal!!!

I don't know what the quantitative difference is between being frugal and just being cheap; it probably is not that substantial. But there is probably a more meaningful difference between the qualitative characteristics of frugality and cheapness. I am a somewhat frugal person. I base this self-evaluation on the following facts:

1. I try not to spend money unless the item being purchased is a necessity
2. I do not think that the world will come to an end if I make a few spontaneous purchases (emphasis on FEW)
3. I like to recycle anything that can be recycled (plastic bottles, plastic bags, cereal boxes, newspaper, jewelry)
4. I look for the best deal while maintaining good quality as well.

But, for the sake of equitable argument, is there really anything wrong with being cheap (here this word means the opposite of being a spendthrift; one does not only NOT spend money wrecklesses, but one is quite guarded in their finances and makes very few to no extravagant purchases, and on average, does not pay more than the lowest price for any item or service). According to http://dictionary.reference.com, synonyms for "cheap" are, "stingy" and "miserly." I feel that more often than not, the colloguial connotation of the word "cheap" is somewhat different from its dictionary denotation.

All this to say that, while I do not see myself being as regimented in dealing with my money, I feel a good deal of respect for people who are able to be so disciplined. We are almost constantly bombarded with advertisements about things that we "absolutely must have, can't live without," when in reality, most of us already have more than we know what to do with sometimes. I am thankful for what I have, and thankful that if I need to, I am able to purchase new things. I don't want to take what I have as if it is my right to have it, and nothing less. I could be living on chewy leaves, crunchy bugs, and small helpless rodents in the middle of a remote forest.

The only problem then would be keeping the toilet paper clean and dry.

(And you're thinking, " I had to read ALL of that, for THAT punchline?!" Be relieved: School is starting again soon and I will not be able to post as frequently. "Ahhhh")