Too bad you’re sick, but I’m totally psyched that you’re writing. Since I’m getting in the habit of posting other people’s work on my front page, if you come up with anything new that you’d like to put out there, just let me know, and I’ll put it out there.

You’ll definitely like “Bowling Alone.” I think it’s a must read for the modern day activist.

You’re definitely right about the money. Like everything else, it’s addictive. Once you have some, you need more, and then you need even more. That’s probably a good reason why people of different socio-economic classes usually define needs vs. wants differently.

I personally believe that this is largely due to the American standard of living, and the American dream that EVERYONE grows up knowing through subliminal messages.

Of course, I may only really think this because I know of many stories of people immigrating to make it big in the US – to only find them selves in a situation with the same struggles. That where they find themselves, they’re far below the line that defines poverty and can never quite find a way to get above it. Of course, there are those people that overcome it – but instead of living conservatively and spreading their wealth to those that could use it. Then they try to be the most hip person they can be – raising their standard of living.

I know that my parents have done so – I grew up living in an upper-middle class household. I found it hard to imagine living with any less. But having no tv, or the most current video game system, forces you to go out and either do something physically active, or do something socially active. Except, right now – I’m still trying to find the local community here to work with.
My parents lifestyle here in America is based on being as “normal” as possible – yet they would always tell us how much better our lives are than theirs were. I often wondered why we just didn’t live with less.

…And of course I have quite the expensive bicycle. Living as scarce as I did in college makes me want to use the money I make now to catch up and buy all the things I didn’t let myself get during the last few years of my life.

Maybe its because my knowledge of OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers of which are the chief export of the Philippines) is that they leave for a dream. And for those that make it, they want more than the roof above their heads, the sanitary bathrooms, and food that’s actually decent.

I know the point isn’t to compare the American lifestyle with other lifestyles, but I think that the excessive money perpetuates certain aspects that are detrimental.

What is it about humans they always make us want more?
Do we always want to have something more than the standard of living?
or
Is it the dreams that we have?

People often say that its because the society here promotes selfishness. And much like the book you pointed out for me to read (which I did pick up, I just need to read) “Bowling Alone” takes away from any desire to work at the community levels.

Don’t businessmen golf to be social with each other? Why don’t they start a community project and be social with each other in their communities? In fact, from a business perspective, it’d probably be even better because the community could be in strong support for you.

…Uh oops… I guess being sick gives me nothing better to do but continue writing aimlessly.