Thursday, November 29, 2007

ANIT-CONSUMERISM: NO PURCHASING IN 2008!

Round about 3 weeks ago Dennis mentioned the idea of not buying anything in 2008. We thought and conversed what that might mean (obviously we have to buy some things like groceries). However, there's a lot we don't need. We both currently have plenty of clothes, so no need for more this year, unless we need socks or something. We definitely don't need any more books:) We can use the library; they have most things. If they don't have it, you can request that they order it, and they do a lot of times! In fact, Dennis has asked them for several things. Anywho, we decided to go for it. The more we thought about it, the more we liked it. Also, when I found myself thinking "It isn't 2008 yet. What do I need to buy before then so that I'll be fine for the whole year", I realized that yes, we need this shift in thinking:) After all, the point is to have a shift in thinking, not just a delay of consuming. So, instead of asking if we can afford it or if we can use it, we're switching to "How could we find a way to get by without it?". We're also going by the philosophy, "If you think you need it, wait a month." If we do have to buy something, we'll try to get it second hand, following the "reduce, reuse, recycle" in that order. We'll keep you updated as to how it goes:)

Heidi

1 comment:

Buddy Crawford said...

Yes, capitalism is the best workable system that we've come up with so far, but that doesn't mean we have to let ourselves fall victim to materialism (constant wants) and consumerism (being lured by advertising and media to make unnecessary and/or unwise purchases.

I really admire the stand you are taking and especially your discipline. However, I couldn't give up fast food.