If I had a crystal ball I never would have taken on this project during such a difficult time. Next to the death of my dad and, many years later, my mom's revelation that cancer had come to visit (she has now been cancer-free for three years. Yes!), this has been the most challenging time of my life. I wanted to engage in my G.U.L.P. project when my days would otherwise be largely hurdle-free. Right. That's the point, isn't it? This is life. Raw, unpredictable, frightening. I'm reminded of a clever one-liner I heard years ago, "If you want to tell God a joke, tell him your plans." The simple quip illustrates the certainty of life's unforeseeable turns.
The restrictions of my project are manufactured realism. For me, an elected reality for 28 days. But what is it like when extraordinary limitations are one's reality and then, as it often does, life inserts another hurdle? The pain can be unbearable, especially when one feels the struggle is her's alone.
As I now traverse my own cloudy path I'm aware - in part because of my G.U.L.P. journey - that my hurt is not unique. Struggle takes many forms, and as solitary as struggle feels - whatever that struggle may be for whomever experiences it -- it is not exclusive. What if, for a moment, in the depths of our most private pain we could step outside of ourselves and offer something to others? We may discover that our own suffering is eased. It's a strange paradox.
A part of me is wishing I wasn't in the midst of G.U.L.P. right now. But I'm too far along, too determined, and, frankly, too stubborn to not follow through. And maybe, just maybe, the lessons learned through sacrifice will offer some salvation.
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.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
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This was a dark post. I hope you are ok. Thank you for blogging your journey, it gives those of us who love you the opportunity to hold you up when you struggle, and help you celebrate your success. Right now I sense a struggle, perhaps a struggle that has nothing to do with how you are going to prepare your cabbage. So hold on sister.... breathe deep, and be present with what is. None of this is bigger or stronger than you are. *hug*
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