Over the past week I have found myself settling, resigning myself to attitudes and actions that I would not normally choose. When I get tired, it is so much easier to shop at the big box grocery store on my way home from work then to make the trip to the locally-owned, organic food store. I don't work as hard to find ways to carpool with people, because it is more convenient to have my car with me. Why not just make copies of the paper for everyone? It's easier than thinking of a different, more creative solution.
That's not how I want to live. I want to push myself to recycle, eat local, walk or bike, and generally live in an integrated fashion. But doing that and working 10-12 hour days is getting the better of me. I guess I just need some encouragement. I'm excited to live in a college town again next year. New Hampshire (and City Year) just weren't built with integration in mind...
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
4 comments:
I know how you feel. I have a conundrum. The nearest Whole Foods is 20 miles away (which is a heck of a lot closer than the nearest one to Las Cruces) but still requires a drive. But the nearest safeway is walkable....hmmmm....
You inspire me to shop locally and be consumer smart, so you make differences whether they are visible or not.
It's tough anywhere, Mich. It takes a lot of people egging each other on.
Don't be too hard on yourself. By all means, try to do that stuff, but when it doesn't work out now and then, let it go.
Keep on stickin' it to the Man.
Mich...being gentle with yourself is rule number one, remember?
Russ is right, it takes community. It's impossible to do this alone, and yet American culture was built for the rugged individualist. It's pretty darn hard to swim against the entire culture, especially if and when you feel like you are swimming alone.
But Mich, you ain't swimming alone. Don't forget that. There are so many other people who are trying to work toward integrated lives. You aren't alone.
I want to write you more, but I need to sleep now (speaking of being gentle with oneself). I will write soon...peace, dear friend.
Its good to hear that you aren't giving up, mich. while certain locations may better lend themselves to integrating, not one location can absolutely perfect. Be open to the surprising encounters with integration. It was great to see you earlier this month! Take care, friend.
Post a Comment