I decided not to do the money fast, mostly because I dealt with similar issues recently when I decided to switch jobs and work part-time. But, hearing the sermons has allowed me to reflect on the changes I made when I found myself with less discretionary income.
The money fast discipline that resonated most with me is the idea of shopping as entertainment. This was something I used to do frequently; it was easy because I worked in Friendship Heights, a mecca for all kinds of shopping. During lunch breaks or after a particularly stressful day I would shop for shoes and clothes. Or sometimes it was books and cards. Half priced Christmas cards in January, I'll take them, even if they would likely be forgotten in a drawer come December.
Now I rarely shop for entertainment. My new hobby is simple and free - walking my dog. We have walked the streets of Logan Circle everyday for the last couple of years. I have come to appreciate the beautiful and not so beautiful aspects of the neighborhood I call home. Our long walks also encouraged me to pick up a dormant hobby, photography. Since I usually don't print my photographs, this is also free. In addition to being a creative outlet, it's something I contribute to Foundry and other organizations that I believe in.
Giving up shopping as entertainment has literally gotten me out into the world, embracing and appreciating everyday in a deeper and more meaningful way.
(Thanks, Alicia! If you have thoughts to share, email me at dsnyder at foundryumc.org.)
(Thanks, Alicia! If you have thoughts to share, email me at dsnyder at foundryumc.org.)
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