Last night when I attempted to log on to my blog, my computer didn't cooperate. I couldn't access the internet. Mild panic turned to frustration, and then to anger. My computer is new and by all accounts ranks among the best. Yep, my Comcast payments are current. There was no reason I shouldn't have had access to the global information highway. My aggravation grew. What to do? I thought to text each of my computer-savvy friends. It was too late. I thought to read the directions. Really. But I didn't even know what answer I was looking for. Being the computer neophyte I am, I was completely stumped. And trying to address an unidentified problem is like trying to cook a meal without a heat source. Aaaahhhhh! I sulked. I tried to read. I tried to log on again. I shut the whole thing down. I turned on Anderson Cooper. I laid on the floor and wrestled with my dogs. I nearly cried. And I laughed. I took a few deep breaths and let it go. It would all be okay.
Posting daily blogs is part of the commitment I made to this project. It's important for me to adhere to each of the rules that I've set. Blogging is the public side of this personal journey, and I need to remain dedicated to both. It all really matters. Well, yes, and no. Commitment absolutely matters, but in the height of my frustration I realized how a well-intentioned endeavor can become polluted when I allow my ego's indulgences to eclipse the core purpose. The seduction of my own sense of self-importance was apparent. Not posting my blog would in no way change how the world spins. My goals are noteworthy, but no more relevant than anyone else's; my project is meaningful, but in no way superior to any other act of generosity.
Now, with a clearer head, a lighter heart, potatoes sizzling in the skillet, and a working internet (a phone call to Comcast solved it all), I am back on track. And maybe a bit more evolved than I was yesterday.
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.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
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