the value of chump change

Now that I am free from a full time job, I get to make all the minor errands that I never get to make during the day time. Because I live in a town full of unemployed actors, traffic is always packed. It is true, indeed - that in LA, you are never safe from it. Just like blood through veins, our town wouldn't be alive if we weren't bumper to bumper.

ok, things I did today:

1. Recycle the overflowing, cascading pile of cans in my backyard. I opened it up and found alot of rainwater. It was totally disgusting. Right there and then I decided I was doing it not for the money (yea, right), but to relate to a homeless person who would have to rely on such income. I discovered that my neighbor apparently drinks alot of energy drinks. From a large-sized garbage bag, I made $6.22. Chump change. I was in the cashier line with a homeless guy. I should've given my $6.22 to him. I felt strongly that I had to. And then I didn't. The stupidest thing came into my brain: Now that I don't have a job, what money will I have to tithe with? God, sometimes I should not gripe about those Pharisees in the Gospels. I'm sure Jesus would've been fine if I gave my chump change to the homeless guy versus church. To him, its not chump change.



The recycling center is also a dumpster in Santa Monica. Yes, it stank.



2. Sell my DVDs. I should've ebayed them. I got $13 for four CDs. One of them wasn't even opened.

3. I visited Albertson's to see if a grocer who wanted a flower pin was around. Was not. Here is a flower pin in case you want one. $15 bucks each, with a enclosed clasp on the back. Great, handmade gift.



3a. I think I saw some stealth plane. I swear, the thing was jet black, the span of it was huge, it was very flat and it was not a domestic carrier of any sort. I took a picture but if I let you see it, I'd have to kill you.

4. Visited my "grandparents" Norma and Peter. I love them so. I visit them now and then just to say hi. Peter is almost 90 and still going strong. That just means that he's still complaining. And when someone has something to complain about, you know there's still kick in them. They are incredible people, and they fit the "Italian bill" : exceptionally lively, warm, and totally in love with life and each other.



5. I met with my financial advisor. It is the first time I've ever had to think about mutual funds, dividents, price/earning ratios and all that stuff. Joseph is a friend from church and very helpful. By that I mean patient. At some points, I was embarrassed for being a chump with my change and not understanding simple math. It is amazing that money has so much power. I hope that I would treat every penny in my life with respect. It transfers into so much: kindness, gratitude, power, generosity, the ability to provide. Yes, it can offer happiness in its own way. Fulfillment? Nah.

6. Finally, all Los Angelenos are giving their chump change to the evil axis of greed: the oil industry. Mind you, this is no doctored photo:



In light of that, I think tomorrow's goal is to walk everywhere. Or, I will do some training by running. Until then, enjoy your adventures!