Many of you know that I work for the state of California (just since July). On Friday there was an announcement that state workers would enter a forced Furlough of 2 days per month. That's a 10% pay cut, but 2 extra days of my time to myself. What am I going to do? I am going to look forward to the future, take advantage of the added time, and cut back on things I don't need. Maybe I'll even have some time to things I haven't because I spend too much time working and not enough time growing.

Is this cut going to hurt? Absolutely! As a state worker, I worked long and hard just to get the job I have. I am honored to work for all the people in this state and I am thankful for the competitive process that helped me achieve my highest goals. I live simply and humbly. I have worked diligently to eliminate debt and to reduce consumerism...YES...Reduce Consumerism. What a concept.

We are headed for a new age everyone. One that does not rely upon the next generation consuming more than the last. What a mess we got ourselves into. Lift your head and look in a new direction. If we are less consumed with the fast pace and long hours at work, perhaps we will learn to see each other as people again. Perhaps we will make a new plan together that will sustain future generations. Change is uncomfortable. It is important that all sides are heard. Then we proceed.

I don't know about all of you, but ever since I graduated high-school and became a member of the working class, I have witnessed an incredibly work centered society emerge before my eyes. How far away do you live from your family? How often do you get to see your children or your spouse? How long does it take you to get to work, so you can work 8 hours minimum in a day? How many people do you outsource to take care of your home (gardeners, handy-men, childcare workers, cooks - includes eating out, dog-grooming, car-repair) You name it! These are all things we could do ourselves if we only had the time. Ahhh...that precious time. It's all we truly have.

I found this great website: http://www.timeday.org/I have only just begun researching this organization, but I would be curious to hear what you think.