Contemplation... Also Known As Inaction or Fear

So I was sitting here staring at my computer screen, contemplating my life, thinking about all the things I think I should be doing right now, and perusing blogs of people who are actually out there, in the world... acting on their beliefs, changing their ways, speaking out about things that matter. And here I am, somewhat paralyzed in a state of inaction, or fear, or whatever you want to call it. I think I need to wake up just a little bit. It's nice for me to have ideas and to write about them somewhat fluently in ways that I think won't offend many people, to make "safe" changes like those listed in my last post, and to otherwise go about my days thinking I am making a difference, making a change, when really I am doing little more than stewing about in my own fear. That, I've realized, is something that I need to address immediately. Stay posted. More to follow soon...

Things to Do...

I've always been a fan of "things to do" lists, and although I am trying to break myself of the habit of creating these long lists and then feeling disappointed when I don't get everything done on any given day... I'm not quite ready to let go of the lists just yet. So here's a list of things I am going to do to simplify my life, hopefully within the next year.

1. Finish school 

2. Donate or sell about 50% of my belongings

3. Begin to work the steps of the Your Money or Your Life plan to financial independence

4. Find a way to make money that allows me the time and freedom to pursue my passions and interests

5. Learn how to create and maintain a vegetable garden

6. Learn how to compost

7. Live according to the Compact and not purchase anything new, or at least cut my purchases of new things by 75%

8. Help develop the non-profit organization I am a part of 

More to follow... this is, obviously, only a start. Suggestions?

Hope

Sometimes hope originates from a place of perceived hopelessness and sometimes the most extraordinary outcomes result from the most ordinary of actions. I have to admit that on this personal journey I am traveling towards a life of greater simplicity, there have been many moments when I have been a little less than proud to be an American. I am not proud of our country's greed and consumerism and oppression, but that conversation belongs in a different post on a different day.

Today, I want to focus on the positive. I have to say that I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride, hope, and empowerment that I have not felt in a very long time... if ever. I have always wanted so much to be part of a generation that stands up for things that are positive, humane, and hopeful and I have always believed that change is possible. I have also always believed that my generation - the youth of this country - has not been apathetic so much as it has been waiting for a chance to really be heard. And last night I saw a glimpse of what this kind of voice might mean in my lifetime. To me, that deserves a moment of pause and of reflection.

Some Inspiration from a Greeting Card

1. the path is not straight.

2. mistakes need not be fatal.

3. people are more important than achievements or possessions.

4. be gentle with your parents.

5. never stop doing what you care most about.

6. learn to use a semicolon.

7. you will find love.

                      - marion winik

Today I am meditating on number three. Of course this is something I believe, but I think it is also important to make sure my actions are aligning themselves with my beliefs. This can be challenging sometimes. A little reminder like the card I found on my desk this morning is nice.