Let the Joneses win.  If Mr. Jones has a new car in this economy, say “good for him”.  If Mrs. Jones wasn’t laid off, say, “good for her.”  If they spend lavishly, say, “dumbass!!!”

Really, let the Joneses win. You never really know the price they had to pay for all of the things you covet and you don’t know if they are happy behind that successful, conspicuously consumptive veneer.