Aconsumerism and Abundance

I just made up a new word...at least I think it's new.

ACONSUMERISM: Without consumption...ie, the absence of consuming.

This is meant to take the place of "anti" consumerism, which literally means "against". I am not against consumerism, I just purposely refrain from being a consumer (ie, buying stuff) when I have no need. I prefer to engage in activities that encourage sharing, learning, and a sense of community. That's what aconsumerism does for me.

This is not to say that I do not consume. I just think before I buy. I am purchasing some items to make gifts this year, instead of spending hundreds of dollars on things that may be worthless next year.

I just read in the Independent that we spend an average of $859 on holiday gifts! This is reduced from $907 last year. No wonder so many Americans are in debt. There is no doubt that a majority of the purchases are by credit card, so the money is also being given to large corporations, not just our families and dear friends.

Just imagine other ways this money could be spent...

Money isn't going anywhere...yet. So maybe we could think of it as a useful tool, to bring goodness and equality to our fellow humans in the world. I can live without an ipod, or a brand new pair of jeans. But none of us live well without love.

Peace and love to all. :)

Come to the Really Really Free Market in SB!

ATTENTION ALL... ANNOUNCING.... The Really Really Free Market!

Sunday December 30th, 2007 11 AM - Dark (about 6pm) at Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens (Same as last time!)

This time featuring: -Workshops! -Free Food and items to take home! -Music! Bring your friends, family, and all your extra STUFF to the REALLY REALLY FREE MARKET! No Money, No Barter, No Trade, Everything is Free. Come, share, and build community. YOU make it happen!

http://www.myspace.com/sbfreemarket


For those of you who want to know more about RRFM and other awesome movements, visit Wikipedia for more info...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Really,_Really_Free_Market