Most people have limited funds. There are few to no people with endless financial accounts. So with limited funds, how do you choose who and what to support?
As a mom of young children and an educator, that was not such a difficult question since my children at school and at home came first. I knew what it took to help children thrive, and that's where most of my funds went. Now, however, my children are independent and I am no longer teaching, I am thinking about those limited funds and what is most important. As I think about this, I've listed my main priorities.
A warm, welcoming home
I don't need a fancy home, but I want a home that is warm and welcoming which means a home that welcomes people in inviting, loving, caring ways. This requires some investment.
Healthy living
I also want to support healthy living for those I love and care for. This means time and funds for healthy foods, activities, and medical care.
Freedom and equity
I want to live in a world that respects freedom and equity. I believe we can work for a world where EVERY person has the opportunity to live their best lives. Right now in our world there are many who want to restrict freedom and equity for all kinds of bogus and greedy reasons. I want to work against that in ways that I can. That's why I want to support organizations such as the ACLU and Amnesty International. I also want to support the kind of leaders that promote freedom and equity.
Promising organizations, institutions, and individuals
Further, I want to support organizations, institutions, and individuals who bring promise to my life and the lives of others. We need people, organizations, and institutions that promote best possible living and learning, and those individuals, organizations, and institutions deserve our support.
Independence
I also want to support my personal independence so that I'm not an oppressive weight on others--as much as possible I want to be able to take care of myself.
Memorable experiences
I have found that planning and engaging in memorable experiences truly bring people together and lifts the joy in life. I want to enjoy some memorable experiences in the year ahead too.
The way we spend our limited funds says a lot about who we are and what we value. It's important to make some time to think about that. Onward.