I found this forum via this thread. I have read all 11 pages of posts and loved 99% of it. I think I may print the majority of it and put it in a binder.
I was going to reference individual posts, such as the initiator, Agility, but then I decided to not be so long-winded and difficult to read. There would be gobs of
references and too much for my long-winded arse to comment on.
Ok, I am just some guy, but here is what I have gleaned and assembled from this awesome thread:
(I am going to bullet it to make it easier to read.)
· Preference is the determining factor when considering which method of acquiring
money. It is some people’s path to have lots of
money and that is good. More money can be a positive thing. I am open and accepting to whatever path I am led down. However, what feels right to me is not being driven by money as a primary motivator. The meaning of life, love and joy, is what is important to me. Everything else is extraneous nonsense to experience love and joy.
· Perspective is a driving force. Some feel that dreams equate to thought about unattainable things. Others, like me, believe that dreams are indeed thoughts, but thoughts as tools for creating what we choose to experience. Some have a view in which we are helplessly drifting through this life completely subjected to the whims of chance and random occurrences. Others, again like me, believe that wherever you are is an awesome experience and, what you want and you, will be drawn to each other like magnets.
· Betterment is infectious. When someone seeks betterment it becomes contagious, it spreads like fire. Their personal betterment leads to a desire within them to better the world outside their own life experience. Also, their own betterment is a light that emits a glow that others want to bask in and experience as well.
· An Idea. What about helping the local businesses. Offer your services as a hairdresser, painter, etc. as some sort of
partnership where you offer a cut rate and they can offer their services for a reduced
price, which will generate more
work for them, more positive public opinion, and will increase everyone’s love and joy, so you are not some sneaky “gypsy” trying to steal from the community. An added benefit will be the bbq/parties that you will be invited to. Another thing that exists in a bubble of reciprocal betterment is the assistance shared, such as mechanical help, carpentry, sewing, foodstuffs, and future job opportunities.
· Oh, yeah. I almost forgot to contribute to the thread. I like the ideas of some community, such as on this forum, of people from all over the world in various places. With this here new-fangled Internets machine, the reputation that is required and was once established by being there for extended periods, can be established through a trusted site. This would not, of course, reach directly to areas without
computers or access even. However, word of mouth can travel about as fast as the Internet’s
lightning speed. A pub owner could frequent the “trusted site” and share their knowledge with their patrons who may be other
boat owners, locals, and
government officials. With some prior planning everyone will benefit from the skills and abilities individuals bring wherever they go. I have been attracted to the
family community of sailing. This coupled with the communities created online makes very helpful, very viable sites such as this one exist. Regardless of an individual’s primary motivator, they can couple with other like-minded people and flourish themselves as well as others with shared knowledge and experience.
No, I am not 18. I am indeed a hippie, but I am a born-again hippie and I still value my desire to sacrifice my own life for the freedom of others to experience theirs in whatever way it may be. Does my love of democracy resonate?
John