The perennial question of "so what do you want for Christmas?" has been asked, and I have the luxury of having so much to live with and from, that I get to think about a response that can engage others around me.
The adage "think global, act local" has always been meaningful to me. So I return to this, especially as the general economy is depressed, and the action is to "shop local". This idea is described simply in the 3/50 Project: pick 3 local independent "brick and mortar" stores you couldn’t live without and if you spend $50 each month amongst the 3 then basically you are strengthening your own community.
It’s important to remember the repercussions our purchases have. For every $100 spent on local independent stores, $68 goes back into the community through payroll, taxes, and other expenditures. If you spend $100 on a national chain store, only $48 comes back; and if you buy from an online source, NONE of it comes back.
I want my friends and community to do well and to be well. In turn, we will be better equipped to reach out and assist others - on a local AND global level.
4 comments:
Thank you for posting this - for shopping local - and for supporting this movement! I certainly would not be doing what I am doing without your support. And for that fact, I am eternally grateful.
There's mutual benefit in this, of course! See you SOON!
Had the most delightful experience at Perry's Art Supplies
128 Greenfield Avenue, San Anselmo, last Friday. Just happened to be in the area - the thought of finding parking back in San Francisco at Utrecht or Blick Art Materials inspired me to pull over and make my purchases before heading home. I'm glad I did - I'd almost forgotten the non-franchise shopping experience. No attitude and great service. Couple of Starburst Chews to boot!
It's wonderful when we can uncover gems in the process. Spread the word!
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