Where are the guidebooks for this new life?

Back in the 70s there were a lot of how to books out there on counter culture living. People really were heading back to the land. They were searching for many things, a life close to nature, a rejection of their parent's values, independence, and experimentation. Quite a few books were written on the nuts and bolts of the lifestyle. Of course, styles change and the demand for such books went away.

What we need are some good guidebooks for the time we live in now. The rules of money, employment, health -the whole social order, have changed. It's time to stop chasing a dream that's gone. Many admit to themselves that we live in different times, but are too busy mourning the old ways to develop new ways.

Sure, there's lots of info on the web, but it's scattered and in electronic format. We need real books. Books have a practical size limit, so everything in it has to be of value. There' s not room for fluff. We need a book that can be read by a homemade candle when theres no electricity.

Someone should gather all the best practices out there, stuff that's being done in the real world. Forget theory and concentrate on proven technologies, strategies, and philosophies.

Perhaps there should be different books for people in different stages of their life.

A book for the high school graduate just starting out.

A book for the college educated that can't find good paying work in their field.

Something for people who've lost their jobs, houses, money and whatever else. There are ways to start over and have a meaningful life.

How about the older folks who've discovered their retirement isn't going to be anything like they were told it was going to be?

Then we could have a master book for how all these people can work together in a community, strengthening and enriching everyone.

I'm betting all that information is out there. I don't know of any focused and sustained effort to gather the best into book form.

Of course, it's not necessary to wait for such a book. Get your computer, a printer, and a binder. Search for information that advances you towards your lifestyle goals. Print out all the good and practical information off the net and put it in your binder. Make your own how to book -preferably before you really need it.

-Sixbears