When I first conceived this idea of giving up something "essential" so that I may give something essential, I outlined the steps I needed to take and did the requisite research. I met with Mary, the dietician; after identifying the non-profits I would support, I met with each executive director to discuss my idea; and I educated myself on creating and working a blog (had never been on one before), and setting up a Facebook page. I took the necessary, practical steps required in launching a new project. And, of course, I gave significant thought to what it would be like to restrict my food choices. Whoa!
We've all had the experience of projecting our thoughts, of imagining what a process, a path, or a result will feel or look like. We do it with our relationships, with our work, and with our personal goals. With G.U.L.P. I envisioned what it would be like to step into a space of dramatically limiting an everyday fulfillment. But the disparity between anticipating a project and experiencing it can be dramatic. It's somewhat akin to the differences between theoretical study and practical application. I believe that the defining element, that which allows us to successfully merge our projected idea with actually walking the walk, is perseverance. Perseverance: To continue in a course of action even in the face of little or no prospect of success.
Each and everyone of us can point to a time in our life when we persevered. And because of it we are better for it. The parable of the guru and the impatient man I have read many times. With every read it cracks me up - and brings home the truth.
"A man meets a guru in the road. The man asks the guru, "Which way to success?"
The berobed, bearded sage speaks not but points to a place off in the distance.
The man, thrilled by the prospect of quick and easy success, rushes off in the appropriate direction. Suddenly, there comes a loud "Splat!!!"
Eventually, the man limps back, tattered and stunned, assuming he must have misinterpreted the message. He repeats his question to the guru, who again points silently in the same direction.
The man obediently walks off once more. This time the splat is deafening, and when the man crawls back, he is bloody, broken, tattered, and irate. "I asked you which way is success," he screams at the guru. "I followed the direction you indicated. And all I got was splatted. No more of this pointing! Talk!"
Only then does the guru speak, and what he says is this: "Success is that way. Just a little after the splat."
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.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
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