chaos, order, and self interest This is a short ramble about life and what it means to "do the right thing". Since Julie works with magazines at the local library i have easy access to many "improve the world" publications. We are also members of several organizations and keep track of 20-30 email lists. All these resources appeal to various interests with their view of what we should do. Often they address a specific problem such as:
costs/frugality human/animal rights climate/environmental change energy/greed/world politics ecology health Most of the organizations ask for money or activism. A few request lifestyle changes and all of them appear to be converging on a sustainable path. They also appear very chaotic and somewhat negative due to focusing on problems. Most of us would be very frustrated if we spent all our time fighting world problems. Instead i propose we we form a core philosophy based on having fun. We can address all the problems and still have a good time. Here are some ideas: Read for quality and diversity - this can be both fun and educational. It sets a good example with minimal consumption. * explore libraries * explore audio books * research hurdles in our lives * explore the net using search engines Convert daily activities into recreations * plan a picnic * cook meals from different world cultures * celebrate an event or milestone with others Interact with nature as part of survival. * food garden * herb garden * greenhouse garden * useful house plants * walk Community and local interaction. * take a course * start or teach a local course * tour local institutions, senior homes, organizations, etc. All of these activities can lead to a better relationship with earth and help avoid guilt or activist burn-out. You must be the change you wish to see in the world. -- Mahatma Gandhi jeff http://www.bctonline.com/users/jko/ehome.html
