Hi.
Something that free time allows you to do is to think. Quite a bit. And so since we've had a whopping month off of school, I've been thinking a month's worth of free time thoughts.
Which can be bad, since I've a bit of a tendency to stew in my own juices - to become self-critical and then depressed. Not a pretty thing.
Like I've worn the same shirt for four days just because I don't want to change.
Anyhow, last night, Nathan and I were talking about finances and starting a real savings plan, and he suggested that I read this book Created Rich, which is a book written about finances and savings from a Baha'i perspective, which he had been reading (and really likes).
I don't know what it is about money and finances and economics, but I am not interested. Not only am I not interested, I am afraid to think/read/talk about it. I think partially because I am ashamed that I know very little about it but mostly because I feel guilty that:
1. I have a vague conception of what I am supposed to do with money (save),
2. I'd rather spend it instead,
3. I'm embarrassed because I don't have a lot, and
4. I've a history of spending spending spending and then being broke and in debt.
So I don't want to touch that mess with a ten-foot pole.
However, in the course of our discussion last night while discussing the general feeling of guilt that many people have, Nate said to me, "it's not about you - it's about an ever-advancing civilization."
It's true! I was very excited because this not only addressed my fears about money (I actually resolved to get over it and be open to changing my habits) but also other aspects of my life. Think about how you would behave if, before every decision you took, you thought "does this assist in an ever-advancing civilization?" Not only would you feel that you had a part to play in the progression of society, but you would be affecting society in a positive manner!
love,
~liz
Posted by lizington at January 12, 2005 09:21 AM