Make a name for yourself
During my morning walk, I realized that everyone is just trying to make a name for themselves! A name written on cement screams, “Please please remember me.” Tagging on the walls communicates many messages; one of which is I AM IMPORTANT. One wedding anniversary, I remember my husband also carved our names on the cliffs of La Jolla (along with many other people’s words of devotion). How romantic – a symbol of longevity! If our kids, parents, teachers, politicians, activists, and entrepreneurs just want to make a name for themselves … I ask, “Why not leave a legacy?” Why ONLY write your name on a wall or cement?
Be an example for all those you meet. Be the light that lights the candle (analogy for anyone who loved RENT as much as I did!). First, write a list of what gives you peace. Then what makes you happy. Then sad. Then angry. In these lists, you will find your legacy!
Many thought leaders before us have said that you gain as much, if not more, by giving rather than receiving. I know how, as Americans, our motto is BIGGER IS BETTER or I want more, more, more. What about switching it around to giving more, more, more? I’m not talking about giving away your hard earned buck$. Rather, devote your passion to make a positive change to pass on to future generations.
Capitalism. Consumerism. Consumption.
Americans … It’s in our nature to buy, buy, buy. Even after 9/11, as we mourned, our president asked us to go make purchases to save the economy. Capitalism is the basis of our system. We are bombarded with commercials and bill boards to increase our list of wants. Brand-placements have been subtly put in the movies to reach our subconscious. Every magazine offers a plethora of ‘things’ we must buy! If we could only have ____, we would be rich, thin or happy. It saddens me that we have built our self-esteem on what we have rather than the authentic relationships we nurture. This may be the environment we grew up in but it doesn’t have to be our reality.
What guides your purchasing decisions?
- What is the best product?
- What is the best price?
- What is trendy?
- What do the Jones’ have?
- Is there free delivery?
- What colors are available?
Now is the time to THINK DEEPER as a consumer and as a human being!
Have you thought about?
- What materials were necessary to build your coffee maker?
- Who assembles your child’s Aurora doll?
- How much water was needed to make your carpet?
- How much electricity was used in producing your car?
- How much waste was produced while making your wide-screen television?
All the questions listed above relate to the Supply Chain. These are valid and essential questions.
CALL TO ACTION #1
Consider every dollar you spend a vote! When you vote for products made with values of sustainability, you will be a driving force in inspiring companies to do the ‘right thing.’
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