Wednesday, 15 October 2008

Poverty

Believe it or not this post is not about me; well, less so than usual. Yesterday was blog action day and although it would be good to write about things more important than myself every time I post, today is the day to start. 

In my last post I blatantly and ironically complained about a lack of money and assets and the self-loathing that has resulted. However, let me undermine my own writing: I am fine and live in fantastic conditions compared to those in developing countries. I am typing on my own laptop computer. I can afford (just) to rent my own inner-city apartment. I work and aspire to work in the entertainment industry, a non-essential and frivolous business. 

Anyways, enough about me - lets heed the call to "make poverty history". With the global financial crisis I've heard a lot about 'investor confidence' and seen vox-pops with the average Joe Smith voicing that they're not sure about stock-market investments anymore, it's put the fear in them. Well why not invest in something more tangible? Even marginally alleviating the poverty of just one person? 

I don't want to get all soapy on the soap box but I invite you to ponder poverty today and would be pleased to hear your responses on how the world can be a more fair and happier place for all. 

Please take note of updated links, in particular the Bicycles for Humanity Project - it needs monetary donations as well as friendly bikes. Bicycles have been a vehicle of freedom since their inception, so this is a delightfully practical and transparent way to help those suffering poverty. Spread the word!