My personal mission with this project was simple. I wanted the 28 day G.U.L.P. to inspire real personal growth, I wanted to support three amazing, non-profit organizations that align with my values, and wanted this project to call attention to the fact that countless non-profit agencies doing incredible work in providing aid to the most vulnerable among us are struggling, no different than so many individuals, with these challenging economic times.
I took today off and spent the morning with my mom. As usual, we had great fun. Yet, I was bummed that we couldn't go to Dixon's for brunch and enjoy eggs benedict with avocado, and an extra hot, no-foam latte. I feel the void of deprivation. I feel. I know that in 25 days, should I choose, I can enjoy these indulgences again, but today I feel the absence. Boy, do I feel it.
Here's a sobering fact: According to the Center on Hunger & Poverty, there are approximately 38 million people that do not have access to enough food to meet their basic needs. Roughly one in ten -one in ten! - U.S. households, more that 36 million people, live in poverty. Yes, here in the United States. So, get over yourself, Ann. This project is good for me. It moves me, if only a little, to a place of greater gratitude.
28 Days | $700 | 3 Non-profits
For the next 28 days, from November 27 through December 24, I'll significantly reduce my food choices: I'll eat only 7 foods, 5 condiments, and drink only 1 beverage (what are they? You'll have to read my blog to find out!). Lattes, fish and chips, veggie pad thai, and vino be gone--Yaaouch! By doing this, I will save approximately $700 that I will then donate to three extraordinary, greater-Denver non-profit organizations.
We've all felt the pinch of these tough economic times. Hit especially hard are organizations that function solely to help the most vulnerable among us. Click the links on the right to learn more about the great work of three such organizations, and then cast your vote. Your vote will determine the percentage of the $700 that each organization will receive. I encourage you to influence the votes of others–but please only vote once. I'll blog about my G.U.L.P. journey and update my progress daily. If you scroll down, you'll find my daily blog postings. Your comments are encouraged!
WHY FOOD, WHY NOW? I wanted my G.U.L.P. choice to be a significant but realistic sacrifice. Food seemed an obvious choice for several reasons: First, I spend a lot of money on food. Not just basic sustenance, but on brunches, dinners out, pricey markets, happy hours, and expensive take-out. When I reviewed my budget and found that I spend roughly $700 each month on eating and drinking, I realized I needed to check this luxury. Second, I think the act of eating is relatively thoughtless for many of us--it has been for me. The question isn't what will I eat, but rather, what do I want to eat. Finally, I chose this time of year for my G.U.L.P. project because the holidays tend to intensify our emotions. For those who have plenty, it’s often a time of celebration and feelings of joy can be readily identified. For those who are barely getting by, the holidays can be agonizing.
JOIN ME: What would you give up for 28 days? I have chosen to limit food choices, but that's just one idea. If each one of us gave up a non-essential item, service, or even a certain food for a manageable period of time--something that we've been conditioned to believe is a need rather than a want, and commit the money saved to an effective community organization, imagine the impact! If you decide to give something up--and I hope you do!--I'd love to hear about your experiences.
Monday, November 30, 2009
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Now I'm craving eggs benedict... Great post. It's good to put things in perspective and to remember how fortunate we are.
ReplyDeleteThought for the day....... eat to live, dont live to eat. Something for all of us to reflect on.
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