The other interesting aspect is that fact that I moved to California to join the campaign and set the slaves free, and now I am selling stuff in a pretty much deserted mall on the harbor.
Granted, a lot of the "stuff" is made by people rescued from trafficking. The whole concept of the Freedom Store is to create markets for slave-free goods which in turn creates sustainability for vulnerable people and brings education to empowered consumers. It's a good cause, but is it my cause?
I am still trying to find my place in the campaign. Even working for a campaign is much different than I thought it would be. There is much less hands on work, and much more effort put into building and strengthening our constituency.
It makes sense that to end global slavery, the entire earthly population needs to be educated and engaged. Everyone has different talents and gifts to use - that when put to use, will effectively re-abolish slavery. "Not For Sale believes that everyone has a skill to contribute than can free an individual living in bondage, and together we can stop human trafficking and end slavery in our lifetime."
"The campaign aims to recruit, educate, and mobilize an international grassroots social movement that effectively combats human trafficking and slavery through "Smart Activism". It deploys innovative solutions for every individual to re-abolish slavery -- in their own backyards and across the globe."
As I said, I am trying to find my place in the campaign. It's crazy that I work one on one with national staff -that I am at the forefront of this powerful movement. But sometimes, I wonder if the forefront is really where I am supposed to be.
I miss the hands on experiences that are so life changing and vital for strengthening and directing passion.
I am really looking forward to my trip to Nepal and Thailand in June. For the first five days I will be trekking in Nepal with this groups: http://www.3sistersadventure.com/ - also check out the pic here http://travel.nytimes.com/2010/03/21/travel/21nepal.html
The next week I will be visiting several different Not for Sale Projects including Kru Naam's Village - which if you have ever read the book or heard David speak, he talks about Kru Naam and her village.
It will be the most amazing experience - one that I am very grateful to take. Also, grateful that I have a supportive husband who encourages me to live my dreams.
