As the fall quarter approaches its end, I finally took time to do something other than catching up on my homework and prepping for classes. This weekend, I watched two compelling pieces that I believe are must-sees: Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. and Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy. Though different in genre and focus, both offer eye-opening perspectives that challenge our habitual ways of thinking.
1. Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin.
This fascinating film brings us into the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor and theologian who became a key figure in the resistance against the Nazi regime.
Watching Bonhoeffer’s story unfold, I was struck by his unwavering commitment to speaking up for the most vulnerable, even at great personal risk. His courage inspires us to reflect on our own convictions and the actions we are willing to take to uphold them. In a time when we are about to experience serious attempts to make an entire system of government bow down to appease the fragile ego of a wannabe dictator, Bonhoeffer’s legacy reminds us of the impact one individual can make by standing up against injustice.
2. Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy
Switching gears, Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy (Netflix) is a thought-provoking documentary that exposes the dark underbelly of consumerism, especially during the holiday season. It challenges the notion that buying and consuming are synonymous with happiness and fulfillment. The film highlights how we have internalized the commandment to purchase more and more, often ignoring the life cycle of the products we bring into our homes.
The documentary sheds light on the repercussions of our consumption habits, especially when companies have learned to greenwash the consequences of their incessant production. It illustrates how discarded products often end up in countries with weaker economies, contributing to pollution and exploitation. This not only impacts those nations but eventually circles back to affect us all, emphasizing the corrupt thinking behind major brands, such as Adidas, Amazon, and Apple.
A Converging Message
Both pieces encourage us to question the status quo and consider the broader implications of our actions. I see a common thread: the anxiety many of us feel about the future is intertwined with our uncertainty about how to enact meaningful change in the present.
Both Bonhoeffer’s story and Buy Now! urge us to take action. Action that can take the form of speaking up for those who can’t or making conscious choices about what we consume. The holidays don’t have to be about the relentless pursuit of material goods. Instead, they can be an opportunity to realign with our values, reduce waste, and focus on what truly matters.
Taking Action This Holiday Season
So, as we prepare for the holidays amidst a backdrop of change, I encourage you to watch these two enlightening pieces. Let them inspire you to:
- Buy Less, Waste Less: Consider the environmental and social impact of your purchases. Opt for experiences that create lasting memories without contributing to unnecessary waste.
- Speak Up: Find ways to advocate for the vulnerable in your community. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply raising awareness, your voice matters.
- Reflect and Reconnect: Use this time to reflect on your values and how they align with your actions. Reconnect with loved ones and prioritize relationships over consumerism.
Change often starts with small, conscious decisions.
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I will see you next week!
Roque Neto 