Paying It Forward
NASTY GAL SWEATER, CHEAP MONDAY JEANS, PRADA SHOES, CLUB MONACO HAT
In light of yesterday's post, I received some criticism for asking for donations. There's no secret plot or scam, and I'm certainly not asking anyone to pay for my trip. All I want is to help United Planet and give others the opportunity to help as well. I did make a note of saying there's no obligation to donate and that moral support is more than enough, but apparently that still makes me an asshole.
As a first generation Vietnamese-Canadian, I admit I've taken for granted the struggles that my parents have gone through in their relentless pursuit for a better life. As I grow older, I take a more careful look at life, especially at my morals and my values. I don't need to be reminded by anyone how fortunate I am; it's written all over my blog. Regardless of the economy, regardless of what clothes, shoes and handbags you and I wear, there is always something to share. If you think I'm only talking about money, I feel bad for you.
Keeping in good spirits, I'll now leave you with this:
"The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts, yet more problems; more medicine, but less wellness.
We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space, but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.
We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion; big men and small character; steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes, but more divorce; fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete.
Remember, spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever. Remember to say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent. Remember to say "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." — Dr. Bob Moorehead, The Paradox of Our Age
XOXO,
As a first generation Vietnamese-Canadian, I admit I've taken for granted the struggles that my parents have gone through in their relentless pursuit for a better life. As I grow older, I take a more careful look at life, especially at my morals and my values. I don't need to be reminded by anyone how fortunate I am; it's written all over my blog. Regardless of the economy, regardless of what clothes, shoes and handbags you and I wear, there is always something to share. If you think I'm only talking about money, I feel bad for you.
Keeping in good spirits, I'll now leave you with this:
"The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts, yet more problems; more medicine, but less wellness.
We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space, but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.
We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion; big men and small character; steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes, but more divorce; fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete.
Remember, spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever. Remember to say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent. Remember to say "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." — Dr. Bob Moorehead, The Paradox of Our Age
XOXO,
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57 comments:
your pics are always amazing.
check out my GIVEAWAY!
http://urbanprettygirl.blogspot.com/
Way to go, girl!
Wonderful text you´ve written! Just discovered your great blog.
- Dani
Enter my giveaway
Lovely photos!! lovely jeans <33
xoxo*
amazing pant!
greetings
lovely outfit,
To me it never came across that you were 'talking about money' or being materialistic. You like nice things and there is nothing wrong with that and I'm sure you've worked hard for them.
Also deciding to volunteer shows that you care.
Youu goo girl!! and these pics are stunning! love the outfit!!
xoxo
Irene
PS.
Enter my giveaway: minimal necklace
Beautiful as usual!!
Love your pants!
http://sweetraspberryjam.blogspot.com/
XOXO
I can't believe someone would find something negative because your doing something positive. But then it again that's life; take everything with a grain of salt Lily. You can't win them all; the most important thing is to remain focus on your purpose in volunteering overseas.
The truth needs no support; please go in peace, make a difference, & come back safe & sound.
PS Those Cheap Monday jeans makes your "assets" look fabulous!
Keep up the good work Lily!
I can't believe someone would find something negative because your doing something positive. But then it again that's life; take everything with a grain of salt Lily. You can't win them all; the most important thing is to remain focus on your purpose in volunteering overseas.
The truth needs no support; please go in peace, make a difference, & come back safe & sound.
PS Those Cheap Monday jeans makes your "assets" look fabulous!
Keep up the good work Lily!
Great outfit, I love it! xxxx
eloisedephotography.blogspot.com
Beautiful Lily, I am with you, and for sure I´ll make my donation, no matter what you are looking for, keep looking for it. That´s what life is about looking for something ...
Patrícia.
I have no problem making a donation to the charity directly. In fact, I’ll go over and share my piece with this organization today.
But I don’t understand why your readers should contribute to your registration. Especially when it’s clear that you have no problem spending so much money on what you admit is “crap”… Why don’t you use the same funds previously reserved for “crap” and spend that on this self-discovery venture? I usually love the things you post here but this particular topic is mind boggling. Either way… best of luck on this wonderful opportunity.
love it.
I am, as always, so proud of you for speaking your mind, and for standing up for your beliefs. I am more than proud to be called your friend, and to be a friend to someone who is giving back to the needy world at large. What you are doing is honorable, and commendable, and people need to stop bitching about it, stop talking about it, and be about it--just do something. Better the planet. Don't waste time spewing filth into the universe. What you're doing is just the opposite, and that's why I love you.
LOVEYOUBFF,
Mae Lu, @ thereafterish.
Good luck on your adventures. I love your blog, lovely photos!
xoxo
Stacey Kay
“Runway Inspiration, Vintage Decoration”
New Post! www.GoodwillHuntingg.com
Fashion interns needed; Cleveland area
My Vintage Handbag Line
@IbisCaraib: Clearly you have trouble reading in-between the lines. My readers are not obligated to do anything and I AM using my own finances for my venture. I just wanted to give others the opportunity to help as well. I'm sorry you find that so "mind boggling".
My admiration and respect for you goes far beyond the space in this box will allow me to convey. I pray that you will continue to follow your heart, and be not persuaded by the negativity in this world. I too have a heart to give, but not the courage to execute complete selflessness. It's appalling that your readers would say this is about money, not realizing that so many philanthropist whether great or small are willing to give money, but so few willing to sacrifice time. Time - the scarcest resource in this world, the one thing we can never get back. It is so easy for me to click the "donate" link on the bottom of this page, but you have challenged me to take a step further and give my time.
I pray that God bless you and keep you on your travels.
-Grace
I love the text you included in this entry...how perfectly fitting. I also applaud your volunteer work, it may seem like a surface or vain effort to some, but those who will benefit from your selfless service will be forever grateful. It will be life changing, I imagine....and who's to judge you for seeking out a way to improve your life and do good???
Lovely outfit! The text you've written is simply amazing and true... you go girl!! Don't stop to do this...
Have a great day!
xoxo
Who in hell criticized you? Unbelievable. OMWord, please ignore that unfortunate person. What you are doing is a charitable act. You will be rewarded for your work. Besides, it's not like you put a gun to your readers head and said that we ALL must register and donate. I swear, people always try to bring their negativity into such a positive act.
www.heartprintandstyle.blogspot.com
My goodness, why so many negativity in this world?:( I always admire your responses to such negative comments :) I hope they'll just leave you alone and instead use their time to make a difference in this world, no matter how big or small.
I'm digging the Boy George's hat ;)
www.monochromachic.com
I also can't believe people are being negative towards you. They obviously have some deep issues.
Rooting for you!
first off, amazing photos, i am totally in love with the second one! and second, people are freakin retarded if they are being negative to you for asking for donations for you to volunteer! just because youre volunteering doesnt mean that it doesnt cost money to run the program! what do they think you'll do with the money, go shopping? some people are just so stupid sometimes...i highly applaud you for your brave decision, this is going to be a life changing experience for you and i envy your courage to embark on a journey that is so new and scary, especially alone! i know you'll do great things while you're there :)
Lily, I just discovered your blog about a week ago. And I think its more than adorable and so are you. I think that your traveling overseas to volunteer is great and asking for donations is great too. And anybody that has anything negative to say...let those ninjas fall by the waist side. Your in a great position to go and help out others and that is the greatest gift of all.(giving back) I hope that on this journey you are able to blog about it, not just fashion, but the lifestyle and culture:-) I've traveled overseas, never been to Nepal. Let me just say, going over there is going to change you in ways you probably couldn't even imagined. Continue being beautiful and great and have an awesome day.
-Sicely
Don't waste your time addressing the negativity! Do & say what makes you happy! You are so honest and real that some people cant handle it!
Judith
http://estilomode.blogspot.com/
i really like your blog, not just for the fashion but more so for the writing. i love what you write and how you express yourself through words, i think many blogs lack that aspect and its great to see you incorporate both!
you're a beautiful person, inside and out!
Looking at some people's comments, it's true what Bob Moorehead says. It seems some people are quick to pass judgement when all of a sudden you are sharing about an important cause and all they want to say is "Cute top, come follow my blog". It's like stop and READ and DIGEST what this post is about. SMH.
All I can say is it's very rare to see bloggers do something like this, versus spewing out what this and that company just gave to them for free. It seems that is all readers care about. You do what is fulfilling for you Lily. I only wish I knew more young women like yourself.
nice ;)
http://www.theupperfashion.com
http://www.theupperfashion.com
everything you have to say is so well written and thoughtful. whoever is criticizing you for asking for donations is ridiculous. you are doing a wonderful thing
xoxo,
welcometodeutschland.blogspot.com
Great post, girl. People are way too judgemental. How do they think you're funding for the remainder of the trip that donations won't be enough to cover? With a magical sack full of a couple grand in cash that was given to you by a fairy god mother? With a pot of gold that was found on the other side of the rainbow? Obviously you've had to use your own money, too. Also, I'm pretty sure you've just stated: "I'm actually in the process of getting rid of these things crap, but that's beside the point."
People are such prudes. Turning something so positive into something so critical. You see rich celebrities and moguls with expensive designer goods asking for donations. Are they supposed to donate their entire fortune? Donations to a cause creates awareness about the organization.
Anyway, that is all. I don't make much money working part-time, but hope my donation helps!
Lianna
www.thesavvyfrugalista.com
i absolutely love you for your blog and your realness... keep doing your think and the ppl who are offended need to read... i mean not to judge your finances but you been wearing loubs,pradas,and more and have a awesome place before you even asked for a donations so why would they think that you dont work and need to have a faux donation... the nerve omg.. screw them and i am going to donate definitely understand being 1st generation.. take care <3M
I really love your photos. I like that you are so personal in your writing it is refreshing and much appreciated. Keep up the good work
xoxo Monroe
Fashion Steele NYC
Unless my English faculties have failed me, you stated, "Any donation, no matter the amount (even $5 will go a long way), would be greatly appreciated and will contribute to the program fee. Additional funds raised will go directly to United Planet and help those who need it most."
Is the program fee not paying for a part of your trip's expenses? This somehow takes precedence over the amount that is going directly to United planet. So yes, Lilly, you are pretty much asking ppl to fund part of your trip.
Nobody is saying you can't afford to pay your way, in fact, this is probably why ppl are so taken aback that you'd ask for donations for program fees.
Had you asked for ppl to contribute directly to United planet, no one would have am issue with what you're doing! What you're doing is amazing and beautiful. You're giving from a place of love and that's admirable, I'd love to take a month and dedicate myself to ppl less fortunate than I. But I certainly cannot afford it, but then again I also can't afford $2000 designer shoes/bags.
I understand you have a fan base on here that will support you no matter what you do, but beware they can also prevent you from much needed introspection by justifying your request. Fuck it, we're all fighting our struggles. Good luck with yours.
Amazing post.
I've always been the support team for trips, and raising money for third-world countries, I've considered going abroad, but I know I'm not emotionally prepared for the trip.
I applaud you and wish you luck. I can't wait to hear about it.
those who would criticize you for that needs to get a life... lol
I'm glad you're doing this trip, I have friends that have gone overseas and volunteered and it changed their perspective. I don't understand why people are so bothered by the fact that you have a donation button. A trip like this costs a lot and paying it upfront is a huge donation, so I applaud you. So what's the big deal of asking for some help.
love the blog, just read about your donations. i hope you get enough! who cares about the haters you're doing it for a good cause! just keep doing what you're doing.
took a follow
http://shetokes.blogspot.com
Wow, some people are just fucking rude (excuse my french)...but anyway, you got my support, babe! The way I see it is that I will probably never have this kind of opportunity to volunteer abroad because of my finance, work, and school...BUT, at least my donation will be a part of something spectacular from long distance. Why not give it to someone that has the courage and ability to change the world...
i love that you're giving a chance for people who couldn't actually go and help to just easily donate with a few clicks of a button. how dare these people criticize you despite the tremendous sacrifice and courage it takes to do what you're doing. i wish you well!!
I am not that kind of person who reads long posts, but I read yours! And I have to agree with Karla!Who cares about haters?? Having haters means you are someone important!
Btw, I love your shoes!
I am hosting a giveaway, come and join if you want!
http://www.thestyleagenda.com/
xx
Don't let what anyone assume about you bother you to be justified. I just read the post and I think what you are doing is great!!! Time is way more valuable than money and you are going to be rewarded greatly! Keep on following your heart and brush the negitivity off. I wish you much blessings on your journey to self discovery and in the process helping other. You are a rare girl and that's why you are so blessed.
i dont think you had to explain yourself to anyone. Wht you are doing is for a good cause and those that are questioning your good deed needs to go take a chill pill and sit in a corner! keep up the good work! =)
side note: i love those shoes lol O.o
amazing shoes!!
Kate xo
collectionsandcreations.blogspot.com
Moorehead, pastor of the Overlake Christian Church from the 1970s to June, 1998 was arrested in July, 1996 on a charge of indecent exposure in a public restroom in Daytona Beach, Florida. He stepped down amid allegations of molestation of adult members during baptism and wedding ceremonies that went as far back as 20 years earlier
Wiki it.
@Sonya: I posted Moorehead's piece because his words inspired me; not because of who he was/did as a person.
Lily,
OK, 2 things:
1) ♥ ♥ your last comment on my BLOG !! [blush]
2) Do you know how beautiful your face looks in your previous Post: "On My Way to Self-Discovery" - Honestly, I just noticed it again !! ♥
baci ♥ Brad
Wow. Those were the most deepest words I have ever read and they were all soo soo true. I am going to take what I read and use it to guide myself through self-discovery =)! Thank you!
Much Love,
xxlivelovelaugh
xoxo
I really needed that. Thanks for sharing, I'll definitely be reading that after I finish my current book!
And as for people hating on you asking for donations? On to the next. I'm still confused as to why that's a problem! Do you! That's why people love your blog. You stay true to yourself, dnt settle for anybody!
-Kris
http://thekrisbliss.blogspot.com
those pants are amazing and i can say the same for the post below!
Stunning!!!!!
love ur looks!
http://oppositelipstick.blogspot.com/
OMG! I love this post Lily. I think ur a great girl. the fact that ur even thinking about it means ur a good person.
I love ur fashion sense and all but more importantly I love the fact that I can relate to u. I'm currently on that same road to self discovery and just doing my best to let the positives outweigh the negatives in my life and sometimes that requires rediscovering ourselves.
love the shoes!
enter my 1st giveaway!
You have such great style.
Your shoes are killer!!
Oh, those heels!!! Loving them!
Kisses from http://cinnamonspicedart.blogspot.com/
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