Jessie X

I have two meetings this morning. Each with people whom I know and like. And both meetings are “helping meetings.” In other words, the people requesting the meetings with me want my thinking and perspective. OK, great, no problem. Happy to help. But for me, as a creative generalist, who can help pretty much anybody think through any problem — and find a next-action solution — I could spend day after day just “helping.”

So, I’ve decided of late to have such meetings through Columbia’s timebanking system, which is a program I support conceptually and in my personal and professional actions. It’s not a strong program yet, but it never will be if people don’t start using it. So, I for one, am not only using it, but I’m moving more and more of my “helping” activities, when I’m doing something for an individual, into the program. I’m not trying to do anything so radical, such as this here: Alternative Currency Movements. I just want a more resilient community and believe time-banking is one component of this.

If you’re in Hoco and curious about this new type of currency, feel free to come by to the Lakeside Deli and Cafe, over by Clyde’s, this coming Wednesday in the 11:30 – 1:30 range. We’ll be having a salon, of sorts, to explain, discuss and expand the concept. You can sign up then, as well.