I recently discovered a website with an ongoing mission that I can truly relate to.  I hate to start my regular blogging schedule by promoting another website, but I love the concept so much I think it should be shared with whomever visits my site.  The site is called Justfortheloveofit.com, most notably touted by the concepts creator, the inspiring Mark Boyle. Personally I’ve never been one to go with the flow.  For some reason I love to go against the grain.  FINALLY I have found a website that not only allows me to go against the grain, but do it in a fashion that, ironically, provides something positive for myself and the community as a whole.

     There are other websites that are great if you like to barter, especially in these trying times. Sites like Barterquest.com that lend you the ability to not only barter endless amounts of items, but real estate space for vacation and services as well. And of course there is always the trusty Craigslist.com. If you haven’t heard of it I’m shocked…it’s definitely worth a look see. Mark Boyle however, has something that I have not found in very many people or websites for that matter, and trust me I’ve been up all night researching.  Mark has true dedication and conviction in his personal beliefs.

     If you happen to decide to take a look at the freeconomy website you will find a section called “philosofree” where it states, “ We do not use advertising, we receive no donations or income from the website and it is completely free to join, forever. Why? Just for the love of it!”.  This concept is not something that we find to be prevalent in American society. While the government of the United States loves to give away billions of the taxpayers money on a daily basis, and corporations and wealthy individuals enjoy significant tax breaks by giving to charities, you may find that individuals aren’t necessarily as charitable as you might think. I for one am inspired by justfortheloveofit.  I’m not necessarily soully inspired by the website itself, but it’s ardent promoter Mark Boyle from Ireland. 

     Inspired by the infamous Ghandi, the 28 year old decided to take a 9,000 mile walk on January 30th, 2008 on the sixtieth anniversary of Gandhi’s assassination! Why is this significant? Well besides the obvious, seemingly insane idea, to walk such a great distance, Mark has decided to take this walk without carrying any cash or credit! according to him he’s relying on the generosity of people he has never even met.  His walk from Britain to India, will take him a staggering  2 1/2 years.  So…i guess your wondering why he is doing it, huh? According to Mark, he has embarked on this incredible journey because,  “I have a vision of a money-free economy in which everyone cares for each other”.  As far as Mark is concerned, money is at the heart of most of societies shortcomings.

     Sadly though Mark only made it 1 month into his journey when he reached France and was forced to turn around.  While such a major setback would send most running and searching for a rock to crawl under and hide from the prying eyes, Mark is optimistic and hopeful that one day he can make the trek again.  This time however, in all likelihood, he will be bypassing the apparantly inhospitable country that forced him to turn around and walk the other way. He added, “I know people are laughing at me, but I don’t mind. I’m going to go and do it all again.” Where most see failure Mark sees a second chance and an opportunity to be and do better. As far as I’m concerned that is truly inspirational.

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