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.’
Read More »Environmental Stewardship
Why did we decide to join the 1% for the Planet movement? First, we’re in good company! Clif Bar, Volcom, Patagonia, Petco, Hess Collection Winery, Steelhead Vineyards, musicians Jack Johnson and Jackson Browne, Klean Kanteen, and New Belgium Brewing are just a few of the almost 700 American businesses participating. Second, we want to be a positive force in environmental stewardship through thought, word and deed.
Read More »12 important questions about women and girls
These questions address society’s view of women and girls.
They are a compilation of 12 social justice issues from around the globe.
They affect each and every one of us. Especially women and girls: OUR mothers; daughters; sisters; cousins; girlfriends; fiancees; wives; aunts; school mates; colleagues; acquaintances and friends.
1. Why are child abusers tormented in jail but rapists are not?
2. Why was there a law against raping married women on the books in several states in America but the same law didn’t protect unmarried women?
3. Why are women and children still being kidnapped (or sold by their own families) and placed into the sex trade and sex trafficking?
4. Why is it the fault of the woman being raped for wearing something provocative (or merely attractive) and the perpetrators are not blamed?
5. Why doesn’t no mean NO?
Our lifespan-ten years longer than our children
Jamie Oliver. Jamie Oliver. Jamie Oliver…..FOOD REVOLUTION!
At the beginning of the school year……..
Please invite the teachers, admin and staff to watch 2011 Ted Talk Annual Award Winner, Jamie Oliver (only 20 minute video). Please invite all the parents, too.
Our school lunches must change. Now not later.
