Monday, November 30, 2009

It's been a long time

I have been on hiatus from writing in this thing for quite some time now. Today at work I had an experience with a customer that made me realize that I need this blog as a constructive outlet for speaking my mind. Unfortunately, the nature of customer service does not allow for one to argue across the counter about whether or not Wal-mart is an ethical, progressive company. Personally, I think the answer is obvious....NO WAY!! Factories overseas that utilize cheap labor through the exploitation of female workers. The fact that the bulk of the wealthiest people in America own some portion of the Wal-Mart corporation. The terrible advertising, touting that they offer cheap, healthy breakfast for families. Frosted Mini-Wheats? Toaster Strudel?? Really??? Right now I don't have any numbers to throw at you, but in my opinion, just because you serve organic yogurt from Stonyfield Farms, does not make you progressive. Now, my main conundrum is this, and has been this for a while now: how do I remain an empowered feminist who does not fear confronting another with my personal opinion on something I feel passionate about? It's true, I do take it a bit too personally and can become one feisty babe. Perhaps I need to work on relaxing and knowing when it is appropriate to have a healthy argument over the issue at hand. Maybe right in front of my boss and in the middle of a drink order from one of my least favorite customers is not the best time; however, I do not want to constantly silence myself in order to placate the masses when it comes to issues of social justice. Do I not know when to pick my battles? Maybe. But at the same time, I refuse to stop challenging the complacency of others with the injustices that slip by us silently (or oftentimes, not so silently). As I search for the solution to the problem at hand, I do think this blog is a good place to start in finding my voice and standing up for what I believe to be the right thing.
~F.B.~