Over this Christmas period, it was an unusual time for me. Unusually thrifty.
Christmas used to be a time for me to spend, give and loosen up. This year, it took a turn. It is probably a combination of factors – Uncle K.C. talking about contentment, doctor’s advice of not having so many things in the room (I have allergic rhinitis, which is triggered by dust mites), the economic outlook and also, a higher awareness of where and how things come from. One of the films that really impacted me was “The Story of Stuff” by Free Range Studios. My eyes were really opened to understand how the consumption eco-system worked. I really respect Free Range Studios, a creative agency that is dedicated to eco-causes. And they do really good work.
I was very conscious of NOT wanting to add unnecessarily to myself or to others. Sent my close friends a mail (those that generally get me presents), that if they want to, they can either empower lives through microfinancing via kiva or giving educational books to kids @ East Timor. Guess, no idea is “new under the sun”, after I sent that mail, Free Range Studios created another flash movie – “Changing the Present”.Was happy to see that 
Strangely, I was OK not having more. Was pleasantly surprised and felt free. Whilst shopping for presents, I was hardly tempted to get anything for myself.
Just happy to have what I have. My new motto for the year is “Less is more”. I’ll still buy stuff… but less, better quality and more fair trade items
