Consumerism will kill us. The violence we see in the stores will ripple throughout the world. I'm not talking about the people pushing, shoving, fighting or stampeding, although those actions are violent in of themselves and are not acceptable. I'm talking about the people purchasing products that were produced through slavery, genocide, pollution, raping, coercion and force. This hidden consequence must be recognized when ever we purchase something. When we purchase, the strings that are attached to that product reach far and wide. We don't see them but they are there. Being consciously aware of those strings can really change our world!
By getting off the grid, we have managed to reduce our dependencies by 90%. The amount of violence that we support has been significantly reduced, but not completely eliminated. We see the strings and I refuse to support organizations or individuals who engage in this covert, silent or hidden violence.
You've come so far and are an inspiration to the Bowes Clan!! Sending you mad love all the time, hugs for you and your beautiful tribe. <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
You are so right. Commercialism will kill us in the end. And it so rampant. Everywhere we turn we are exposed. But as you say there are things everyone can do to reduce the effects. We are constantly being bombarded with adverts telling us what we need and how to buy it on time. We don't watch television. We don't read papers so are not exposed to their propaganda. We don't listen to radio either. We buy very little and we don't buy from manufacturers with dubious practises.
I couldnt agree more. I buy local as much as possible. I used to get really depressed around the holidays because the whole I must buy outrageous gifts for everyone and going into debt is absurdity. When you feel obligated to give a gift it kind of defeats the true purpose. A true gift should not have guilt attached to it, and in my view if I give you something, it would be out of kindness without expecting anything in return. Plus a lot of the gifts are throw away items that turn into garbage. Who really needs one of everything?