On a positive tip

For all my ranting and complaining I have never lost notice that this country continues to provide tremendous wealth, opportunity, and freedom.

And in Lancaster/Central Pa we're especially fortunate to be surrounded by a beautiful landscape and a community that takes advantage of those benefits in some amazing and often simple ways.

As a reaction to the increase in domestic and world tension and division, I've noticed more people are dropping out. Sometimes it manifests itself in small ways, such as buying habits or choices in media consumption. Other times it takes form in more aggressive approaches...people homeschooling their kids or quitting their jobs.

And I don't mean to suggest that these folks are dropping out in some sort of fearful way, or that they're hostile or paranoid. I'm suggesting that they're coming to a realization that the "system" is bullshit, that it can't be beaten on its terms, but that the best way to beat the game is just not to play it. And once that's been realized, it brings with it great relief.

I outlined an example of that in a post that I made last year sharing the video of Johny Knoxville in Detroit.

Those example are popping up all around us closer to home.

They include places like Sterling Farm The Farm is run by a young couple with two kids who are organic farming on a County sponsored cooperative. They supply . 22-24 weeks of fresh, chemical-free produce for $450 for a full share/$250 for a half share.



There's Mike Wann. I guy who two years ago was a financial analyst disgusted with the system and inspired after helping his son with a kindergarten art project. That turned into THIS.

and this:



Even within the system we have companies such as Two Dudes Painting in Lancaster who contribute their space, money, time an influence to starting projects such as Lancaster Bike Works The idea is simple: create a bike repair shop, fill it with unclaimed bikes, and give youth in the city a great work experience, while providing some sort of bike library to the community. Check out a bike as needed, return it. Take your own bike to the shop for a repair, and help out around the shop for a few minutes in exchange.

And those example don't even touch on the churches and non-profits who have been quietly and selflessly maintaining this community for years without seeking any attention except for the causes and the people that they help. Places like Milagro House, Philhaven, and the Water Street Rescue Mission.

There is a balance between what's essentially entertainment and the real world consequences of national politics. But ultimately, I'm starting to realize that its our own actions and the relationships within out local communities where are energies are best served.

That being said, fuck Santorum. muahahaha.