jakorte's blog

Wouldn’t it be great if the way to solve all problems was to simply find the right switch to flip?

University of Michigan recently came up with an interesting engagement program called “Power Down.” The theory behind the initiative was to remind people and have them commit to powering down all electrical appliances during non-work hours. Computers, monitors, faxes, printers are all good candidates for this. A pledge form was included in the information received to encourage employees to actively commit to helping the U spend less.

What sort of benefits would this simple act achieve? Well, less electrical use to start. That saves money. Long term, there’s wear and tear usage savings – prolonging the life of appliances and reducing replacement costs. Perhaps a few jobs could be saved as well, or maybe some of our increased benefit costs could be offset?

Although a great idea, my division ran into a small problem. Updates, fixes, and many reports are run in the evenings. A later email advised us not to turn off our computers, but agreed that we could still turn off our monitors, printers, etc. Something is better than nothing, right?

The point is, finding that one big switch is a utopian goal. It isn’t realistic to expect that one thing will change everything. What is realistic is making changes where possible.

Here’s another thought. While we’re powering down appliances, let’s power up our spirituality. Let’s connect to the real power source. Turn off your monitors; fire up prayers. Unplug your power strip, plug into the bible.

In this issue: Switches, Inner Light, Yoga
Now posted: Meeting GOD in the Street, and A Slidell Life Story
Worth visiting: http://yoga.about.com/od/beginningyoga/Beginning_Yoga_Practice.html