I've jumped into the Christmas season with two feet. Not to shop, not to re-decorate but to really try and warp my thinking around the concept of Advent conspiracy (www.adventconspiracy.org)
I've been really good the past three weeks since this all began when our family determined we weren't spending much of anything on Christmas besides some things for the kids, and instead putting our money towards clean water overseas.
It's getting difficult.
The few times my kids are allowed to watch YTV, 40% of their time viewing a show contains commercials for every new Littlest Pet shop, Transformer, Barbie, Disney movie or Lego Castle. In turn, they talk about what they want, alot. Kalea is writing and reading a ton now, so she has written up her christmas list...and Sam's list too. oh, thanks honey.
I can handle my children wanting things, they're still young and impressionable enough to convince them having three gifts is super-de-duper awesome.
What I can't handle is these waves of 'wanting' when I go out. I'm feeling today like I might be missing out and I'm not going to get a satisfied feeling at the end of December. I wish I could ignore the consumer deep within me, desperately wanting to seek out what sales await.
1 comment:
This is a tricky issue, isn't it? I must admit to loving the festivity and togetherness of gift exchanging at Christmas. I totally agree that most of us could probably stand to cut back a lot, and to give WAY more to those in need of basic resources (and I have also been recognizing that I really do not need more things for ME, like decorations and so on, so am really clamping down on personal purchases - although I am willing to replace a dead light string here and there...so far). I would not blame you one bit if you decided to build a LITTLE gift-giving back into the plan, to experience that joy of giving to a spouse, or other loved one, and giving a chance for that person to do likewise...while still honouring your commitment to pour the majority of your Christmas resources into social projects. An interesting exercise you have chosen...I look forward to your reflections once all is said and done!
Post a Comment