Lately I've been thinking quite a bit about the social and political structures (among other things) that have allowed me to lead the extremely privileged life I do. I tend to get caught up on issues of fairness and equality because I truly believe that everyone on this planet deserves a fair and equal chance to be the best possible person they can be. But the reality is that we live in an unfair world where wealth and resources are not distributed according to need.
I profit from the current system. Even in these current times of economic hardship for so many, I have remained relatively unaffected. Not to mention the fact that my children came to me, in large part, because their first family didn't have access to the resources that they needed.
Every day, people all around the world are suffering. Making difficult decisions that I, from my privileged vantage point, can scarcely fathom. Decisions like "which child gets to eat today?"
On September 1-3, there will be an International Hunger Strike in honour of three girls who were kidnapped from their mothers in Guatemala. I will be joining in these efforts, not only for them, but with respect to all the people around the world who are forced to go without.
In addition, every Monday leading up to September 1st, I will be fasting, eating only limited portions of foods that can be grown. Nothing processed. Nothing that requires refrigeration or preservation or fancy preparation. I will use these days to reflect on how I can use what I have to make this world a better place for someone else.
1 comment:
I feel you, Jayme. So much going on in my head about this world too and the injustice of it all. I applaud your fasting--getting your whole self into it rather than just ruminating on it and feeling disgusted about how unfair it is. I may just join you.
Sarah
p.s. Can I tell you how thrilled I was this morning to see that you and Heather BOTH had posts after such long long long hiatus'? Welcome back!!!
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