While I do accept donations, I rarely say much about it. Yesterday Steve posted a comment encouraging others to donate. The plug and the donation were mighty kind, Steve. Thanks.
I wanted to say a few words about donating today. I’ve been writing these thoughts for almost five years now, and I mainly do it for myself. It keeps me writing and it’s a fun way to learn more about using the Internet. But it’s also for anyone who else out there who appreciates what I say, however limited that group may be.
I’m more or less asking for your support. I’ve been unemployed since July, and while I am financially stable and still able to make all my payments each month, I’m not swimming in dough. I’ve recently incurred more expenses related to these thoughts, including hosting and Internet access fees. While I took those bills on with the hope that freelance projects would pay for them, it’s always nice if these thoughts can pitch in their fair share.
A straight-up donation is the most direct way to support these thoughts. Consider it a small fee for the content you enjoy almost every day. You’ll pay $10-30 for a magazine subscription, or $15 for a book (or maybe 88 cents if you’re like me), so maybe consider donating $1-5 for this.
Another way to support these thoughts is with Amazon.com. I have a referral system set up, so any time you follow a link from this site to Amazon.com and buy anything there, I get a small cut of your purchase. It’s usually a piddly amount, but it can add up. So anytime you’re thinking of making a purchase at Amazon, please consider coming here first and clicking on a link for Amazon.
If you spend lots at Amazon, I’d encourage you to consider supporting other sites that have a referral program with Amazon. It’s like giving away free money, so spread it around. College textbooks, Christmas presents, whatever.
Finally, you can support these thoughts in less tangible ways. If you like what you read, tell your friends. Be a part of the site and post a comment (isn’t that a snazzy new feature? Speaking of comments, I’ve been meaning to comment on that new feature. Some day I will. While I don’t expect everyone to comment, it is reassuring to know that people are reading these thoughts.). When you read these thoughts, remember that there is a person writing them, and he could use your prayers.
All of these are great ways to support me in this endeavor. I don’t expect anyone to actually do them. Like I said, I write this for myself. But if you happen to get something out of it, that’s great. If you want to return the favor and support me, that’s even better.
OK, I’ll stop sounding like a PBS pledge drive.