Today was my first day back at work since beginning my project. I did not fully prepare for my return and dietary restrictions, bringing only a few hard-boiled eggs and nuts. I had planned to go home for lunch, but that didn't happen, too much catch-up work to be done. Donuts and coffee, fruit, cookies, and brownies everywhere; aromas of reheated pasta primavera and chicken florentine surrounded me. I was distracted.
Have we - have I - ever been this distracted by something so essential, yet so out of reach? Granted, my choice is just that, a choice. Even in the short period of time, 5 days into the G.U.L.P. project, I'm getting it. The distraction I'm feeling forces me to think about those who cannot access basic essentials, be it food, housing, clothing, or even connection with another, regardless of the reason. I imagine that losing, not having, or having limited options, for a protracted period of time, in meeting these basic needs can fundamentally change how one thinks and processes information, how one invests her energy and time, how one plans or envisions her future course.
So many, here in our own country, live on the margins. Sadly, those ranks continue to grow as job and housing loss remain high. The ripple effect impacts each one of us. How can this not give me pause? More importantly: How can this time of pause translate into a long-term dedication to making a significant difference? Somehow, though I don't yet know what that looks like, it will.
I'm lucky, I'm going to bed - a soft one with a warm comforter and lofty pillows - with a full stomach, albeit another meal of eggs and potatoes. Counting my blessings as I drift to sleep.
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 1, 2009
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