I don’t know about you but I am getting tired all the news about the sagging economy.  I encourage you to a quick look at this amazing video called The Story of Stuff.  It helps explain how we ended up here.

I see this as a wake up call that we all need to be more conscious about what we buy, where it comes from and whether we really need it.

I am not going to quit buying things. I need food, clothing, business supplies and some  other things that just make me feel good; my favorite body lotion, a new pair of earrings every so often, candles for the table in  the winter, fresh flowers and a meal out to name a few things I enjoy. I also buy small gifts and then of course supplies to do my hobby, pottery.  I bet you all have your own list of things that are not survival needs but they are purchases that feel good and important in other ways.

None of us are going to stop spending money. We can spend less, we can be more aware and we can also choose to buy locally and support other small businesses in your own neighborhood.  I encourage you to go to the little shops down the street and give them some business. They are what makes your neighborhood alive and vibrant.  I did that yesterday. I walked into a gift shop and the owner smiled and chatted with me. I ended up buying a small gift to give to my son for a house warming. Just that small purchase made a big difference to that man’s day.

The small shops cannot drop their prices and offer huge bargains. They just can’t compete with the big corporate stores in this way. Even if the prices are a bit higher you can look at it as supporting your own community.  Just an idea. Buy less, have more awareness and support other small businesses in your neighborhood.

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