I see a lot of weaknesses in capitalism the way it exists today. Many of the most valuable things humans contribute are undervalued, if they aren’t presented in an approachable, or easy to swallow manner. If an act of kindness is too difficult, it’s hard not to leave it undone Even if we may enjoy, say, learning about the best ways to address personal health issues, like high blood pressure as a health nerd. Few people take the time to look past fads or pills to research, find those people who manage their health in a reasonable and safe way, and ask questions. If we do find a person who takes time to teach us, reciprocation is even more rare–if we’re not forced to pay money.
This is how a lot of work and kindness around us goes unnoticed. That may be why my first book didn’t go far: I was so focused on pushing it out to the public it didn’t occur to me that people’s time is valuable reading and reviewing and coming to events as my time spent writing, editing, and promoting was.
With SickyBeat, I try to take the time and review other books, blogs, websites I respect. It builds relationships and respect, and values of people’s work and time. If Someone isn’t a writer I create something for them, I give some of my skill and time for theirs.
But, I don’t call it capitalist trade, because my intent is not to overtake the other writers. I take the time because it was earned, and all the makers are people who have earned my admiration in general, even if I don’t like what is said. It’s like the idea that if someone else makes dinner to be nice, I eat it I don’t tell them how much I despise the artichoke, because they cooked for me and I got free time because of it. I also do the dishes to reciprocate.
What do you think?
SickyBeat 