The things we have

Sometimes I really think that ignorance is bliss. It's better to be unaware than to know, and be responsible for the knowledge that I (could) have. If I don't know, I won't worry, won't think about or talk about it. 

I think at one time that had been my attitude about some things... Some things just seemed far enough removed from me, my family, friends, life - that it didn't really matter. To me. 

But that is irresponsible. That is neglecting my neighbors, my brothers and sisters. It's not right. Although it's easier, it is not right. 

It seems to be common for people to think: If someone has a phone which has certain components in it that were taken at the expense of others, at the cost of people's lives - ok. If someone wears a sweater that was made in a sweatshop by poor starving children. Or enslaved women - ok. 

A boy pans for gold in a river in Iga Barriere, northeastern Congo.

Because we don't think past what it is that we have, we just see our new toy. Not the expense with which it came. 

I don't need to know about it right? I mean, it's their lot, their fate, their choices which put them in those places anyway... Isn't it? 

This is something that we need to talk about. We need to be aware of what is happening to those around us... What our desires, obsessions, WANTS are doing to others around the world. We need to take responsibility for our own actions. My want of a new camera - who does that impact, and how? Do I have to buy Cannon? Is there another brand that can make a good camera, without using minerals that were taken from conflict areas? What about my cellphone, computer and mp3 player? 

"Although Congo's conflict stems from long-standing grievances, the trade in conflict minerals provides the primary fuel for the conflict," according to the Enough Project - Taken from the article which I believe everyone should read, IS YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFT FUELING WAR, by Tristan McConnell. http://www.npr.org/2010/12/16/132089765/is-your-christmas-gift-fueling-war

What does it really cost to get the latest computer you've been drooling over? The incredible cell phone that does exactly what you want? The mp3 player that I think I need?

What are the things that we have, our possessions, doing to contribute to the pain, suffering, torture and loss of live, of others? Who and what should we be focused on, instead of ourselves and the newest gadgets that we long to have? Not just at Christmas time (although it's a good time to start!), but throughout the year? 

As we quickly approach Christmas... What can I do to help someone else? The money that could be spent on gifts for me, what else could be done? Do I really need much more? And if I don't buy that mp3 player, could I be helping someone who is trapped in the conflict surrounding these sought-after minerals?