Wednesday, 16 May 2012

Macbeth, Marshmallows, and Made in Chelsea

So, I had one of those inspiring moments today. You know that feeling where you feel really awake, energetic, and genuinely motivated? Yeah, I had that. Then I realised that staying in bed was a lot more appealing. Sleep will always win in a fight against revising Renaissance playwrights, and after having two solid days of exams, I figured that I am entitled to a day off from all things intellectual. But at least I made a list of things I had to do today. That's productive.
What I was supposed to do today:

- Be ready by 9 o'clock
- 9- 11 am: Make notes on The Spanish Tragedy
- 11- 1 pm: Make notes on criticism about The Spanish Tragedy
- 1- 1.30 pm: Lunch break
- 1.30- 3.30 pm: Read Confessions of a Justified Sinner
... and that's as far as my list got.

But, what I actually did today was:

- 9- 11 am: Watch last night's episode of Glee (because although it's really annoying, it's also addictive to watch)
- 11- 4pm: Procrastinate on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and send a few relevant emails, whilst also watching a dvd.
- I literally can't remember what happened from 4 pm onwards. I think I watched Made in Chelsea during that time (and yes, although I'm ashamed to admit I watch it, it's so addictive and I don't know why...)

So I procrastinated again. It sounds like I had a relapse or something. Maybe there should be some kind of support group.

The internet is a dangerous place. There's so many things to distract you. If it's not watching things online, it's Tumblr or internet shopping, and internet shopping is dangerous, because they have that page that says "Recommended for You", and you know from the moment you click on that link that you are going to be spending a lot of money on things you just don't really need. Well, I say "need". I think everyone "needs" an anthology of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's works... (yes, I am an English geek!) and the dvds of Sherlock that are discounted if you purchase all three items together. Oh, and then there's that bracelet I forgot about on my Wish List. Oh, and I totally forgot about that folder I wanted to buy. And look, that folder comes discounted if you buy that bag! Bargain.

And then if you are anything like me, you look at your "Basket", and you look at how much you've just spent, and if you are a student, you inwardly cry at your shrinking bank balance; although an outward expression of woe is perfectly acceptable. But it was worth it right? Because all those items are going to be a lot cheaper than if you had bought them in the shop! So really you are saving money! Moneyexpert.com, who needs them?! I mean, everything you bought was essential to you right? Therefore, you spent your time wisely! :) Like I said, the internet is dangerous! :)

But I've become increasingly aware that recently I seem to be spending more money on things I don't particularly need, rather than sharing what I already have with other people. It's great to have things, and I am personally thankful to God for everything I have got! I have so much already, do I really need to buy that new *insert item here*? Or can I maybe spend my money wisely...? Like I said, there is absolutely nothing wrong with having money and enjoying spending it and being thankful that we have things! And I'm sure I will continue to buy things I like! I'm only concerned with the attitude of selfishness that could follow with me becoming too self absorbed in what I want.

This video really affected me. It really challenged me about being so absorbed in the "need-want-have" culture. These guys don't have the choice or the "luxury" of being in the "need-want-have" culture. They're perpetually stuck in the "need food and water and health care to survive but can't afford it" culture.


Just make you think doesn't it?

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