Three Years Later...

Last night I watched the movie Blood Diamond again.  It was the first time I'd seen it since watching it in the theatres.  This is the movie that changed my life, changed my choices, and changed my mind upon that first viewing.  I still vividly remember coming home to my parent's place after the movie and crying my eyes out at the injustices that exist in the world.  That movie was the catalyst for my interest in the simplicity movement.  The rest of that year included considerably down sizing my possessions to only what was needed, donating time and money where I could to those in need, and avoiding anything that appeared to be a waste of money, time, and/or mental energy (things that represented to me a continuation of the injustices of the world).  It also was the year that I read an incredible amount of books with social justice, environmental, and simplicity based themes.  And it was the year that I finally read through the entire Bible.

There has been a lot of talk lately on blog land about whether or not living a more enviro-simple existence is in itself a religious, philosophical undertaking.  For me, my political and social views come directly from my interpretation of what Christianity is supposed to be, and those views only became more solid as a direct result of reading the Bible.  I recognize that the world is an entirely diverse place and that we've created a government and economic system that does not work very easily in conjunction with the principles of Christianity.  But regardless, my political and social mindset is more of the "give freely to the poor, don't save up riches for yourself, God should come first, and put all your neighbors before yourself."  Throw in there some "as Christians we are to be stewards of the earth and of each other" and the concept of "LOVE not judgement", and you've pretty much got my beliefs in a nutshell.  Although I still struggle in my own daily demonstrations of this as well. 

So come back to the present, where although I have the same mindframe, I had wondered how much my recent transitions and adjustments would impact my reactions to the movie.  (One more side note: The first time I had watched this movie, I was appalled by the journalist's ability to re-integrate into sipping lattes back in the US.....who would waste $4 on a cup of coffee when peoples arms were being cut off?!)  In all honesty, I still cried during the movie in regards to greed, political corruption, human suffering, and the reality that so many in the "developed" world really just don't care.  But this time, I also ended the movie feeling a bit more hopeful than last.  Although fictional and Hollywood based, I was moved by the ability of Leo's character to put a family's happiness before his own life, and I recognized that this movie did open the eyes of many in the developed world...even if for just a moment. 

However I did note how like the journalist I have become.....aware of and appalled by many of the injustices of the world but back to purchasing that occasional $4 cup of coffee or that cheap pair of Target earrings.  I still don't know in my heart whether or not this is the "right" life to live, but somehow it's a bit easier to be back closer to some aspects of the mainstream.  (Although ironically in many ways, I was the most at peace with myself during that initial year of simplicity & anti-materialism than I ever have been.)  So somehow I feel myself in the same conumdrum as many.....still integrated in Western society w/ vehicles in the garage, a warm house for our families, and a pot of coffee near the stove....but maybe wondering in my heart whether or not this is really the right way to live yet unsure of how to be both inside & outside the mainstream.  Ironically last time I watched the movie, I went through all my belongings and donated anything I didn't need or actively use to others who could use those things.  This time as I watched the film and I reflected on that prior choice, I realized that almost all of what my husband and I do have.....we use.  Sure we have a few extra books on our shelves, but for the most part all our kitchen appliances get used, our linens get used, our candles get used, the stuff in our garage gets used....and at the very least, that was something I felt glad about. 

With this first paycheck though, I do plan on getting back in the habit of financially giving.  Thus I'll be sending a check in support of Haiti and one in support of Dinner & A Movie which provides services to the large street youth population in Portland.  During my initial conversation with my husband about Haiti, I was a little nervous of his potential response, especially since there's been a lot of Facebook talk from the more conservative side about providing for others globally rather than here at home.  My hope for both sides soared however when my husband responsed that its great that people are giving to Haiti, but wondered why we're continuing to turn a blind eye to Africa.  My solution is..... let's provide where and how we can.  As one of the richest nations in the world, let's forgo 5 lattes and send the money to others with no roof, no food, no water, and limited clothes...regardless of whether they're located here or anywhere.  Let's give because we're human and because we can (but don't want to) imagine what it must be like to be in another individual's shoes.  Let's give because we can.  I like to believe that we each should look out for our fellow human regardless..... I recognize that I continue to be an idealist in a realist world, but all I can do is hope...