I find this thread very interesting, and inspiring. I don't really have too much to add that hasn't already been said though. (Besides, I watch Glenn Beck, I'm not sure how popular/unpopular his opinions are here. ) I will say that I believe in the capability for non-violent protest and revolution, and that it does indeed begin with changing the mindset of the individual. For what is a community built from if not the individuals within it? If everyone in the country were mature and selfless, there would obviously be virtually no corruption. It will be a long process of "waking up" the population. It's a shame that people do not like making decisions anymore. (I group myself here too... I'm always afraid to make the "wrong" decision!) But if you give all your decision-making power to others, it leaves you powerless. Better to have each individual do their own research, make their own conclusions, and make well-informed decisions.

Dannon, I don't understand myself sometimes. Despite my addiction to modern technology and conveniences, being a video gamer at heart, I still have to say, I find your descriptions of how you lived off the land and off the grid... fascinating. It's like... it just feels right. I don't know how I could ever reconcile such vastly different lifestyles and go after both, but it's an interesting thing to think about.