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Crisp by my friend Rob Gray

Is money really the root of all evil?

Capital as such is not evil; it is its wrong use that is evil. Capital in some form or other will always be needed.”
by Gandhi

Hello, my fellow thinkers! I want to start this blog by thanking everyone for their beautiful and incredibly personal responses last week. I had the opportunity to read many of the entries, and I was so moved by all of your willingness to share and be honest about what is going on for you. I have to admit that it was really scary being that upfront about my insecurities, and it was so amazing to feel the support from all you readers and then to see the participation that came from that… Truly beautiful.

So, it has been an insane week finishing up on the show. I always seem to work the last day of the season. Last year ended with a kiss with Tom Welling and some Egg McMuffins at 7:30 A.M. This year, I got off an hour earlier, but it was much colder and there was no kissing involved. We seem to be going downhill here. I must complain to the manager. :)

Ok… So this week, I have picked yet another Gandhi quote. I mean, the man was brilliant! And I have been really thinking about money and how misrepresented it is in today’s society. I think it is so funny that we choose to blame our problems on an inanimate object instead of looking at it and recognizing that it isn’t the money that creates the issue; it is what we as human beings choose to do with this money that creates the struggles, but it is so much easier to relinquish responsibility. I know this to be true because I do it, consistently. I, often times, feel very guilty about the money that I make because I love what I do so much, I have always been very mixed up in my belief that it isn’t really hard work if it is fun; and since I have always loved what I do, I don’t equate it with hard work, therefore denying that I have put any effort into earning my success, and in turn, feel guilty about it. Oy! Yet another thing to work on. Haha! It seems to be a never-ending struggle. I guess that is the point in life– to find struggles, overcome them, and then help your fellow humans do the same. What a wonderful cycle.

I also wanted to bring up finances and money because last year, a great friend of mine introduced me to this wonderful new type of banking called “microfinancing.” For those of you who don’t know much about it, the man that developed it (Muhammad Yunus) won the Nobel Peace Prize this year. It is this really awesome program that he set up in Bangladesh that offers small loans (sometimes as low as 50 bucks) to entrepreneurs in developing nations. This gives them the opportunity to help themselves out of their situation and eventually build enough of a business to employ others in their community. It is such a beautiful way to encourage people out of poverty because it supplies an opportunity where there wouldn’t normally be one, and yet it isn’t a handout. The people can feel like they are doing it on their own, therefore, there is no loss of pride or self-esteem.

It’s amazing for me, how much better I feel about receiving money when I feel as though I have actually earned it. It’s like I was saying before, until I actually acknowledged the effort that I put into my career, I felt very bad about taking the money for it. I can’t imagine what it would feel like to be in a developing country that is living off of handouts. I can project that I would have very low self-esteem and confidence as an effect of the lack of effort that I put in to earning that money that someone has given me for simply existing in this poor country. But what microfinance does is provide people with the opportunity to earn the money, thereby building a greater sense of pride and independence, which ultimately results in raised self-esteem. Beautiful.

I am so excited about this program and these ideas because it feels like a sustainable and constructive way to address some of the world’s poverty issues. I want to encourage all of you to check out two websites that are dedicated to this type of banking and do a little more reading about it on your own.

The sites are www.kiva.org and www.grameenfoundation.org.

I hope you have as much fun reading about it and are as inspired by their ideas and missions as I am!

Look forward to your feedback! Yay!

Ciao, friends.

Allison

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269 Responses to “Is money really the root of all evil?”

  1. Tabby Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 9:32 pm

    What? No McMuffins!? Screw the kiss, bring us McMuffins!

    Just kidding…mostly.

    Thank you, once again, for such a beautiful blog entry. I was researching kiva.org the other day and was pretty interested in the concept of it. Usually, we all think of altruism as a means of giving people stuff, without thinking of the consequences (granted, many do it for tax purposes), but I think that today’s society doesn’t consider, enough, the implications of not doing your part to make the world a better place.

    To be honest, this whole idea of not giving handouts is a new concept to me, since I started talking about this with you, but I’m growing to understand the importance of building up others while being giving/generous. It DOES get people to respond in a more positive, helpful, and self-respecting manner, and moving FORWARD is the key to having a better life.

    It’d be neat to get more involved with something like kiva or grameenfoundation.org. :)

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  2. Sandra Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 9:52 pm

    1) WHAT? this year we get no EPIC Chloe/Clark kiss? :( *dies a little* I guess I’ll hope for a kiss in either Nemesis, Noir or Prototype…we need our ANNUAL chlark kiss! ;)

    2) You are a beautiful person, inside and out. Own that beauty!

    3) You rock and you deserve every single penny you earned. I’m so happy that you’ve found something you love to do and get paid for it. I haven’t found my “thing” yet :)

    On topic.

    I may be deviating a bit form your beliefs, but I will say that those countries are in need of “hand outs” because they are taken advantage of by capitalist countries. I mean how sad is it that Mexicans can no longer afford corn tortillas? The price has risen thanks to NAFTA and these people can’t afford to grow their won corn again, its unprofitable.

    I won’t deny that I am guilty in participating in this capitalist system and honestly I hope to gain from it in the near future.

    The idea of giving loans to these people is a great one, I’ve often read about women in El Salvador given a loan to buy farm animals, machinery and cloth to start their own business. I haven’t followed up on its success, however.

    Once again, Progeny kicked all sorts of butt! Thanks for another amazing performance!

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  3. Sarah Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:04 pm

    hi!! allison, this is the first time that i´m here!!, so i most say, is so cool!!
    and well…my english is not good,(i´m form mexico) so…..well this blog is enteresting because you bring all good quote, and you make me think …..hahaha.
    i´m going to visit the sites , and think!!!

    well….adios!!! XD

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  4. legoIris Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:22 pm

    Hey Ya:)

    I’m an overseas student who come from China….It’s really good to see that you’ve actually been to there!!!This is just awesome website,sometimes,i do think that actor or actress can’t have that much knowledge…but now i see i’m totally wrong.

    Well, even though i haven’t actually earned any large amount of money myself and just have few voluntary work experiences..,,to me….money isn’t a bad thing at all!!Meanwhile,it is such an important thing to learn to give something to other people. Even though i don’t total agree that the rich should be responsible fully to the poor,as i know that my parents work hard to earn that money but somebody just waiting there without doing anything….But it is true that the only way to “heal the world” is to care about othes..

    Hope you have a nice week!!:)祝你天天快乐:)
    p.s. Do you know that there are millions of your fans in China and England as well…we are waiting for the new eposide desperately!!!!

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  5. shinystarlet Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:24 pm

    Wha! No kiss! You poor girl!
    Seriously though it seems you and I are cut from the same cloth. After I went Vegan, I learned all about these things you speak of and I am so thrilled you are bringing them to light here on your blog. I knew there was a deeper reason for my fangirling, albeit healthy fangirling, of you. Sometimes I think socialism is the way to go, but then I think of it’s downfall: it does not produce incentive. Incentive is the root of change and the evolution of progress. This is something socialism does not provide. Socialists believe that if you take care of all members of society, society as a whole is better. My vote is still out on that one. Though if we who have more help those who have less the world as a whole benefits. Imagine if every person in the US gave one dollar. Thats 300 million. Wow! I do believe one’s inner energy affects the global energy and the more positive energy…) I thank you for highlighting these fabulous charities. I live in NY and everyday I am asked for money, which I give, sometimes, though I like the idea of helping someone make money for a lifetime, rather than one day. One doesn’t have to only give money to support an individual trying to make their way. I subscribe to Utne Reader, a magazine that highlights articles relating to “living the socially responsible life” , there are ads for Social responsible investing and once I did the research I could never give my money to big corporations again. There are funds to invest in that provide grants to people in the US trying to start their own businesses. I believe that you “Vote with your Dollar.” I buy community based sustainable agriculture products, shop at mom and pop stores, and put my money into social responsible funds. This weeks topic starts on the individual level. We must ask ourselves do I want to buy coffee and burgers at a cookie cutter place or at a place where I can smile at and give my money to the person whose sweat made my coffee and, in my case, veggie burger. Really, how many yachts does one person need? I guess you could say I’m anti-corporation.
    That’s all for now. Oh and by the way, Art is a commodity just as much as a coffee bean. Theatre makes my life so rich, I glady pay for it. You are a talented actress, and even in a show like Smallville you make me think, touch my heart, and teach me about humanity. Your deserve every penny, though I think kissing Tom Welling should be for free.

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  6. Topsy Kretts Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:31 pm

    Allison I am a quote fantatic nothing. I am so about quotes from people what I talk about because it gives a better idea then what I talk about so I apologize, I just want to get my point across about money. I love quotes. Yaa! (Smallville) I have all 5 seasons just waiting for the sixth season. The basic principle for money and I try to exercise this into my life with every decision with money is what Duane Newcomb once said” The basic principle of turning ideas into big money is to seize every money building idea and work with it until the idea fits your purpose, decide on the steps needed to make it work, and then proceed to do it as soon as possible.” There is a negative effect if money is a fix for people like drugs, Vic oliver once said If a man is after money, he’s money mad; if he keeps it, he’s a capitalist; if he spends it, he’s a playboy; if he doesn’t get it, he’s a never-do-well; if he doesn’t try to get it, he lacks ambition. If he gets it without working for it; he’s a parasite; and if he accumulates it after a life time of hard work, people call him a fool who never got anything out of life.” So we must be careful what are we after about money.
    Feel me Allison?
    Many people say that they would rather have more money, either by winning the lottery or inheriting from someone they love. Sometimes I find myself wondering if money is going to make me happier. Robert J. Mccracken once said “Get to know two things about a man. How he earns his money and how he spends it. You will then have the clue to his character. You will have a searchlight that shows up the inmost recesses of his soul. You know all you need to know about his standards, his motives, his driving desires, his real religion.”Money will unmasks the real identity of the person and ideals, and morals.
    You have stated the “Money is the root of evil” But I believe the the LOVE of MONEY is the ROOT of ALL EVIL”For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” -1st Timothy 6:10.

    King Midas was a very kind man who ruled his kingdom fairly, but he was not one to think very deeply about what he said. One day, while walking in his garden, he saw an elderly satyr asleep in the flowers. Taking pity on the old fellow, King Midas let him go without punishment. When the god Dionysus heard about it, he rewarded King Midas by granting him one wish. The king thought for only a second and then said I wish for everything I touch to turn to gold.” And so it was.

    The beautiful flowers in his garden turned toward the sun for light, but when Midas approached and touched them, they stood rigid and gold. The king grew hungry and thin, for each time he tried to eat, he found that his meal had turned to gold. His lovely daughter, at his loving touch, turned hard and fast to gold. His water, his bed, his clothes, his friends, and eventually the whole palace was gold.

    King Midas saw that soon his whole kingdom would turn to gold unless he did something right away. He asked Dionysus to turn everything back to the way it had been and take back his golden touch. Because the king was ashamed and very sad, Dionysus took pity on him and granted his request. Instantly, King Midas was poorer that he had been, but richer, he felt, in the things that really count.

    Midas gold backfired as Kahlil Gibran once said “Money is like love; it kills slowly and painfully the one who withholds it, and enlivens the other who turns it on his fellow man.”
    The love of money can sometimes bring unhappiness It is like guns, Guns dont kill people, but people with guns kill people same with money. Money is not evil but the love of money is evil. Wayne Dyer once said” When I chased after money, I never had enough. When I got my life on purpose and focused on giving of myself and everything that arrived into my life, then I was prosperous. Some last thoughts on mony George Bernard Snow once said “Money is the most important thing in the world. It represents health, strength, honor, generosity, and beauty as conspicuously as the want of it represents illness, weakness, disgrace, meanness, and ugliness.”

    Keep writing Allison
    I wish you the best for your endeavours
    Your Fan
    Topsy Kretts

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  7. Elizabeth Moser Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:36 pm

    Money, money, money. So important to our daily lives but when u think about it just a meaningless piece of paper, yet we always want more. I find myself earning more money than i ever have before and thankfully i find myself donating more to charity. I agree with the micro financing. There are a number of charities that work on a similar concept, where by they provide people with farming tools, equipment for education, building supplies for homes. Everybody wants to work to make the best out of their lives.

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  8. Akhmadi (Dee) Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:39 pm

    Hi Allison…

    Nice to see your new post. You said :”it isn’t really hard work if it is fun; and since I have always loved what I do”. I agree with this. Everything will be easy to do if we love and feel fun”

    Thinking about money, finance and poverty. In my country [Indonesia] there are lot of people still live in poverty. And this is still become unfinished home work for my country. I hope , we are here can have a better life as soon as possible. We can start it from ourself, our family, our neighborhood and do it right now. We can start it from the small thing what we can do.

    Commenting about your polls “Do you think money is the root of all evil?” I don’t think so, if money is the root of evil. I think the root of evil are power, passion and greed.

    If poor peoples do a crime [rob or steal], it’s because they are hungry. They need to survive. So they need to eat. That’s what i think.

    So, i hope all of us can have a better life soon.
    Nice to see your blog…. I’ll wait for your next post.
    Thanks.. see ya…

    Regards,

    Akhmadi

    Semarang City
    Central Java
    Indonesia
    South East Asia

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  9. Monika Inácio Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:43 pm

    Hey Allison, hope you’re doing alright…

    I have never imagined that there would be a type of banking like that, and I think it’s amazing! Really interesting how it works and how it helps the ones who need it.

    About the quote:
    It is so true… money can’t buy happiness but it will always be there (for good or for bad – that depends how you use it, therefore, it’s not the money whose evil it’s the way we use it)…

    Once more thanks Allison for the excellent blog entry, and continue to have fun with your career!

    Peace out!
    Monika I.

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  10. John Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:45 pm

    Hello again! This is really fun getting to read your thoughts on so many profound issues…so I guess here are my thoughts.

    I don’t think money is the root of all evil…greed is. Money by itself is merely an object, until human lust is involved. It doesnt have to just be money… possessions, power, control, they can all be inherently evil. It is all about what we choose to worship. What we give into to, and what we would sacrifice to accomplish. Money is merely the vehicle.

    I think the idea of feeling guilty about earning money for something you love is truly decent, but unnecessary. Everyone has to work in this world in some form or another. I can tell you really do love what you do and that is evident by your passion and skill as a performer. I think with the long hours and many years of study and practice you have put into your occupation, despite some of the pitfalls that might have come with it you have definitely earned what you get. It’s important to love what we do no matter what we earn, as while work is necessary on many levels, it shouldnt be what ultimately defines us. I have two separate careers, one in music (classical guitarist) and one in web development. The classical music scene is highly competitive, especially in guitar, and all but the most reknowned players are basically starving artists, so I chickened out of that route as my sole means of income, regretably, as I love music more than anything else i do, but I thought a career where I had a better chance to support myself would be more prudent. Luckily, I love being creative on computers too. We need to enjoy our lives, and what we do, and not waste valuable time and energy of desiring that which we cannot have. As John Hughes once said “If we can just resist the drive to do more and get more, then we might just realize that what we have isn’t that bad.”

    Thanks for the links and the info about microfinancing. It does sound like a great concept.

    So, no kissing, or Egg McMuffins in the finale. Got it. :)

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  11. David Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:45 pm

    I agree that money is not evil. I do believe that it can bring out the worst in some people, not all.

    I wish I could know what it is like to get pay for doing what you love. The last time I had a job in Graphic Design, my boss kinda took the fun out of it. You should never feel guilty about making money for doing what you love, you should feel blessed.

    Although I have never been challenged like the people of developing countries, when I borrow money from others, I feel that I haven’t earned it. When I get a paycheck, I am overcome with pride because I worked hard for that money.

    Thank you for creating a site where I can come and really think about my life. Can’t wait to see the finale!

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  12. stantheman Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 10:47 pm

    TRULY AWESOME BLOG AGAIN THIS WEEK !!!

    Here I am in Rochester Hills, MI, its 230 AM in the morning and I am still working (love my job though and like you sometimes wonder should I take the money for something I love to do), and I read your newest blog entry that has such a warm underlying meaning (to me anyway)……..which I take as “the world needs to be more concerned about “good works” than the alterior motives surrounding money and the perceived success and happiness that it brings.

    I am very proud of you, Allison, again for the warmth, perceptions and views on life and humanity that are far further along than your young years tell.

    You can feel comfort in knowing that others are out there (even older than you….like me) who have the same thoughts and reservations about giving and living life. Yet, the way we think about giving and living our lives is so very important to how we feel about ourselves………

    You are one of the good ones, Allison, and from what I can tell from reading all of the comments here on your blog, your fans are mostly like you and we can expect “good works” from them during their lives.

    I sit on the Board of Directors for several Universities, as well as, other organizations and am very familiar with these types of programs and other assistance and Philanthropic programs around the country. Like you, I strongly recommend your fan base check out similar state or local “good works” programs……even bringing frozen turkeys to the local mission makes for a wonderful feeling.

    Gee Whiz……I was hoping a little smooch with Tom might have been in the cards by the end of the Phatom Finale.

    But starting out Season 7 with a smooch could turn out being even better.

    Warmest to You Allison,

    Stan

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  13. Aileen Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 11:04 pm

    Another excellent topic to discuss that I can fully relate to.

    I really, really like what you said about the point in life:

    “I guess that is the point in life– to find struggles, overcome them, and then help your fellow humans do the same. What a

    wonderful cycle.”

    I tend to always look at the big picture of things. I have a hard time breaking things down into little pieces. I always

    want to tackle things all at once. And as one might expect I get overwhelmed very quickly.

    When I start to think about how big the universe is and how Earth barely makes a blip in it, I often ask myself “What is the

    point in life?”

    So the quote above helps me out by reminding me not to always think in such big terms; start small, like with myself, then

    others before trying to tackle the universe.

    Now on to the money talk and my life experience that relates to this week’s topic…which always seems to start off with- In

    college…

    During college I worked 20-30 hours a week at this candy/coffee/ice cream joint. It wasn’t the most mentally challenging

    job, but it was hard work. Thus, I felt I earned my paycheck.

    Eventually though I got sick of it and found a better opportunity…tutoring, one of the highest paying student jobs on

    campus. I found the job totally awesome. I got to sit around and talk about the stuff I was studying in college and get

    twice the amount of money for half of the time I had to work. I felt like I was getting paid to chill and felt a little

    guilty about that. Yet, seeing my students struggle in a subject I struggled in not too long before them made me realize that

    I did deserve my wage.

    Today I find myself as an actual teacher. It wasn’t a career that I wanted and I struggle on a day to day basis of debating

    whether or not I should quit. The reason why I took the job with no teacher training at all (I’m on an emergency permit to

    teach)? Money. The reason I don’t quit? Money. The reason I don’t apply to a Master’s degree program? Worried about if I have

    enough Money.

    I look at my life today and see that all my worries, all my activities revolve around money. I’ve let myself fall into the

    ever easy trap of pointing the finger at money for all my problems instead of looking at myself and trying to figure out the

    problem. It’s a daunting task to change this ingrained finger point behavior, but I’ve got to remind myself “little steps” (What About Bob?)

    Now it’s interesting that you mention kiva.org. I have a friend whose myspace page is all about kiva.org. He’s a big

    supporter of microfinancing.

    In fact here’s the myspace page for kiva [url="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=

    68794907"]click here[/url].

    It’s an awesome concept, and I hope it grows.

    Okay, so this comment is a bit big. It actually took me about and hour to write it too. I know I’ve said this last two times,

    but this blog is great because it inspires me to write every week about things that I’ve thought about and it also shows that

    I’m not the only one thinking of these topics.

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  14. Marcel Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 11:15 pm

    Hi Allison,

    Perfect blog entry, you always bring wise quotes that make us thing about.
    You are very intelligent and sweet Allison, the world needs more people like you to be a better place.
    Stay forever in our hearts and on Smallville too.I love you Allison and your job too of course.

    My best wishes for you,
    Infinite kisses,
    and a super hug, bye.

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  15. emmett Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 11:39 pm

    Hi Allison,

    Money as the root of all evil… Loving these topics I’ve gotta say!

    I guess that notion brings into question how we define evil, how we quantify it, where it comes from and what brings it to life. I think that money is not the root of all evil. To draw a loose parallel: a gun is not evil, though people can do great evil with it. A hand is not evil, but used recklessly and in anger the same can apply. Objects, structures, finances – these things do not carry within them an inherent sense of morality, thus cannot be the root of evil, nor objects of evil, any more than they can be objects of good or pure quality.

    Evil is a moral concept – a very powerful one at that… and that morality, that sense of what is good and what is evil is ultimately born, judged and lived out by people. So in short I think Ghandi hit it on the head (much more concisely and elegantly than myself!!!)

    I get what you’re saying about feeling guilty for being so lucky – I live in Australia and may not be a rich man by any means, but when I see and hear about the conditions others are forced to live in it’s hard not to feel a sense of guilt for being born so unbelievably lucky. But I guess the best way to alleviate the guilt is to do something good for someone else. Someone not as lucky. It doesn’t have to be a massive gesture and it doesn’t have to change the world in a wider sense… but every little bit helps.

    Hope you’re keeping well.

    - Emmett

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  16. Lydia Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 11:49 pm

    Money is not everything but we do need it.
    I’d like to travel so I’m putting aside money.
    Sometimes, I wish I would have more money so that I would be able to travel without having to save up for it for a year or two, buy an apartment instead of renting one…but then I think about those people who can barely make both ends meet. I can’t complain because I have a good job, I can live well, I live in a nice apartment and I can travel but I just need to be patient….I’m lucky and grateful.

    You are lucky that you can do what you love to do for a living. But don’t feel guilty about it. I’m not into the business but I can imagine that some days it’s no picnic being a celebrity or an actress.
    You work hard too, you deserve the money that you make. And you are more than just an actress because you want to live by good values and you try to do something good in the world as well.

    I’m eager to know what’s going to happen to Chloe in the upcoming episodes.

    Thank you again for letting us know more about you as a person and make us think about life.

    Enjoy your time off set and have a nice week.

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  17. ricardo villarreal Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 11:49 pm

    first of all i wanna say…lucky tom!!! jajaja

    hello, hope you’re great; I was reading about the subject of the money;kiva and grameen foundation and I think is a very good plan.

    I didn’t know that this kind of organizations existed; we never think that with a little monetary aid we can help to improve the conditions of life of a poor family,for us maybe means to give a little money but for the other people it means to receive a little hope.

    it was very good that you mentioned it because one of the organizations related to kiva is in my country; I will investigate a little more on the subject and try to join ;as they mention it in grameen foundation; possibly I will not save the world but at least I will try to help to reach the goal.

    I hope that someday you visit monterrey or any part of Mexico to be able at least to take a pic with you :) take care.

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  18. Rachel from Corona, CA Says:
    April 22nd, 2007 at 11:58 pm

    What Tabby?! McMuffins over Tom?? Sorry, can’t do it… ;)

    Anyways, Hi Allison! It’s funny… It’s starting to become my Sunday night ritual to visit your website and see what thought-provoking quote you’ve posted to get my mind working for the week.

    Thank you for posting about kiva and the grameenfoundation.org … I remember reading a related story in one of my Marie Claire issues which really inspired me at the time to donate to the cause. It specifically talked about helping these aspiring African women start their own businesses in a society where the men has all the power and the money (speaking of this week’s quote!).

    But these programs are a great example where a little seed money can help change someone’s life for the better and give them the self-worth and self-confidence that they need to break out of the stereotypical roles that their culture has defined for them.

    It also made me feel better thinking that my monetary contribution was going to affect real change in someone’s live and not just go towards the administrative overhead costs of running a charitable organization.

    Definitely checkout the links that Allison provided!

    Here’s to thoughts of Tom and Egg McMuffins,
    Rachel D.
    Corona, California

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  19. whitney clayton Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:17 am

    hello Allison,
    so this blog adds up to number 4 on your list woohoo!!!!!
    wow this is a very interesting subject. I always find myself
    thinking about the money I spend and that there are people out there with not very much or none at all. I hate to admit this but
    I am a compostive shopper and I sometimes buy things I don’t even need and I feel bad, then I start thinking to myself “why did I buy this I don’t even really have use for it this money could of went to something important or someone in need of it.” Now a days im trying to make sure I know the concept of a dollar and I save it wisely .

    I recently found a organization called “Mondonation”
    I read on fan based website of urs that your involved in that organization and I cant begin to tell you how much I am moved by it. I think that if people share they’re beliefs with others it can do a great deal. I am hoping I can buy a t-shirt I would really love to help out someone with the money I give while share my beliefs.

    I think that helping someone less fortunate then myself we’ll give me a better grasp on life and I think that everyone should
    do this, pitch in by helping they’re community or anything for that matter like that old saying “save one person, save the world” and by being giving and knowing you just put a smile on someone’s face make you feeling so amazing , like you just saved someone’s life.

    This entire world I think needs a better understand of a dollar
    in my personal opinion I think it would be a much better place,
    and it would be the first step to have a better full-feeling life and being gratefull for what you have.

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  20. KAH Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:30 am

    It’s not money that is the root of all evil. It is the love of money that is the root of all evil. If you love money above all else, then you will do anything to obtain it. Doing something you love to do and getting paid well to do is a great plus and you should never be ashamed or embarased by that.

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  21. Timothy Nijland Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:36 am

    “Capital as such is not evil; it is its wrong use that is evil. Capital in some form or other will always be needed.”

    I totally agree on this one. :) What more can I say :P

    About myself.
    I go to school 3 hours a day, and after that I work 2 hours cleaning a day care. Im being paid a few honderd Euros a month for work I hate doing. :P
    I need to be one more year at this school to graduate for graphic designer, and then im off to an actingschool. This is something I’ve always wanted to do. I think its important to have fun in your work. So whether your an actress or working at a day care its both hard work. and the money that is made with it is all hard earned money. I mean come on you have worked years on this show smallville, that takes alot of defotion and hard work. And that you are having fun with your work only makes it better.
    I think you get my point here. :D

    -Timothy Nijland

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  22. Bryce Bond Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:44 am

    Another wonderful entry Allison!

    I can’t express how much I admire the fact that your spreading word of methods that people can use to help out developing countries. Micro-financing and Fair Trade are both such divine movements.
    (If anyone else reading this comment hasn’t read the article on free trade, make sure you do! Also, if you live close to Vancouver, be sure to check out the store mentioned in there, It is SUCH a cool place)
    Right now I am currently contacting companies and businesses in hope that they will sponsor me when I head down to volunteer in Africa later this year. I can’t wait to go, it is going to be such an amazing experience.

    Thanks again for the wonderful words Allison!
    I am already awaiting next Sunday!!

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  23. Carole Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:51 am

    I heard about microfinancing on NPR a couple of months ago, and it sounds like a great idea. I just hope it works in the long term. I think this hones in on a missing element in philanthropy: investment opportunity. If people feel that they can use their investments in order to help people, they’ll contribute much more than they will if simply donating. When business interests can be merged with the interests of people in developing countries, the problems of poverty and the underavailability of public goods can finally be addressed in a way that actually leaves people better off, rather than just leaving them with fuller bellies.

    That’s why I’m doing my wedding registry at novica.com (if I can ever figure out how!), which I also heard about on NPR (I think). It’s a website that allows art produced by master artists in developing countries to be purchased by the outside world; in many cases, the infrastructure for purchasing items from these areas has never existed. Plus Novica.com grants the artist a much greater percentage of the revenue from each sale than the companies that simply buy and re-sell this art in stores do. So it allows two great things to be accomplished: the artists’ standards of living are vastly improved and the culture and way of life in these regions is preserved. They have dishes, mirrors, rugs, paintings, all sorts of things. It’s worth checking out.

    Great blog entry. =)

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  24. aeromech Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:05 am

    hello there Allison, hope u r well
    This weeks quote is very interesting because it is something I think about a lot. My career objective is to become a licensced aircraft engineer and I have often wondered if I just want this because the money is good because it certainly can be. However I have realised that I have wanted this for a long time and it has been an uphill struggle all the way and I am still not anywhere near the top. Surely the work I have put in to get to this point means something?
    People like yourself give me the drive to get to the top and maybe if I am lucky enough to earn a wee bit of money, I can use that to help other people.
    Anyway keep up the good work and judging by the new pic, Happy Birthday – but wait, I thought your B`day was in July

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  25. Deacon Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:37 am

    Haha, you know something? I found your page looking up discussions on that very topic :p

    Whenever I’m having one of my insomniac nights after a long day/night of bleary eyed work, I look up the oddest stuff.

    The age old question…. here’s my sleep deprived take on it:
    Without money, there’d be no motivation beyond the basic needs of survival – Food, Shelter, water and sadly, we wouldn’t have thrived as a species.

    Like any animal, our needs are mostly selfish – To be on top, the ‘alpha’, etc. Add on a couple of neato opposable thumbs and you have a recipe for disaster.

    But therein lies the rub. When you take a look at the world, what we’ve done to it, how we treat each other, was money the cause? That desire to acquire, that need to feed?

    ….or is it human nature that’s the root of all evil?

    Honestly, if it wasn’t money, it would be something else. Money is just a tool, an extension of our inner nature and will. It’s not good or evil, the same way that a gun isn’t good or evil. It’s what you do when it’s in your hand that’s the deciding factor. Best thing you can do is to control the money and not let it control you. Next time you see a homeless fellow on the side of the road, give him twenty bucks or buy him a nice hot meal and a change of clothes and the good feeling you get from helping a fellow person live another day will answer your question for you :)

    I like your site, by the way! I haven’t gotten a chance to look around, but I admire folks my age that can present a good argument and can quote Gandhi! Color me impressed, Ms (Mrs?) Mack and I’ll keep in touch :)

    Your Bud,

    The Deacon (no relation to the religious title lol)

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  26. Deacon Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:47 am

    Ms. Mack, color me shocked! I was looking around your site and just read that you’re on TV! That’s very cool, I had never watched Smallville before (don’t hold that against me, I’m making a solemn vow to rent a DVD tomorrow)

    Definitely worth checking out. Anyone with such impressive views on life, the universe and everything has gotta make an outstanding actress.

    Haha, well I reckon the burden of fame probably means my chances of a direct reply are slimmer, which is a shame, but entirely understandable! Take care!

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  27. Michel Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:50 am

    Hiya everyone,

    It’s a little bit hard for me to understand ALL the words U left on this website (I’m french !!), but I understood that we felt the same about poverty in the world.

    There’s more & more implication of people in this issue, but I think (Oh, I hope I’m wrong) only poorest people in countries (like France) are trying to help underdeveloped countries. I feel richest are being richer and poorest are being poorer!

    I know it’s a little bit pessimistic, but I guess I’m not the only one to feel that!

    Other thing, you don’t have to feel guilty when U earn money and have fun… I love my job, I love what I do, when U do ur job right, and U feel it, it’s quite right U take Ur money! In France, we say “Tout travail mérite salaire”. I feel it’s right.

    Thinking about microfinancing, underdeveloped countries need this kind of financing, ’cause they need small and medium firms. It’s an amazing way of development for them. But not only a man should do that. All developed countries should help them in this way!

    By the way, It’s the first time I post here, the first time I read you, and I see that Ur heart and Ur soul are like Ur smile: wonderful!

    It’s good to feel that some well known people feel concerned by some important issues.

    I hope future will give us a better world!

    Bye,

    Michel

    PS: Xcuse my english, as I said, I’m french… ;-)

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  28. Michel Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:17 am

    Another thing, miss Mack…

    I guess U read “Time” like I did…? ;-)

    Very interesting!

    Bye,

    Michel

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  29. Adrian M. Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:20 am

    Isn’t this a happy coincidence. Last week Allison I started reading
    the book The price of a dream by David Bornstein and it talks precisely about the impact micro credits are having on the lifes of thousands and thousands of people. The secret of success of this system is that it doesn’t give charity it gives opportunities to many families witch in many cases just live in a house made of mud with no water or even electricity. The Grameen bank started as a project of the Nobel Winner Muhammad Yunus who gave up a dream life in the USA to go back to his home country, Bangladesh and is now also the promoter of a way to end poverty by dealing with problems from the bottom to the top and not the other way that has proven through the years to be simply corrupt and ineffective.

    It is good that in this modern times more and more people get involved in spreading the word about the subject that there is another kind of life possible and therefore another kind of world also is possible.

    You were talking about how you used to feel bad when you got paid and you didn’t feel you had earned it and I think is a good consideration because I myself analyze the fact that sometimes I feel like I haven’t earned really the right to live in such a nice home as mine is and with nearly everything I can need or think of at my grasp.

    In my opinion each time some middle class person complains about such a little or inadequate home he has, he should really consider taking a trip to the suburbs of his city and talk to the homeless I bet you next time he goes back he will feel like in a castle or for those who follow Smallville we could just simply say the Luthor Mansion.

    Many Thanks Allison for your considerations here at this site that I am sure will make many people think and also get to know great things such as this weeks Grameen Bank.
    Keep on writing as I enjoy very much reading and even more when it involves helping others or being more knowledegeable about certain aspects of it.

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  30. Redsuiko Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:45 am

    Me again!!!

    They dont sell McMuffins over here in the uk after 11am, so it looks like i’m outta luck there! (although my stomach is now growling)

    I think money is different depending on where you are in the world, I work very hard in my job, its impossible to buy a house because the government have made it to expensive to do so (even though they all own three, but before i start changing into che guevara, i’ll continue), so i’m forced into renting for £700 ($1400 i think) a month, thats half my wages, after bills and all the many forms of taxes are paid for- thats over 3/4 of my wages gone- but after all this, i’m still happy- for me money is necessary, nothing else, its something that is to be done, not to live by.

    Its the poorer countries that really suffer, the minority have the money and power, while the majority have nothing- for them its about surviving, they need money, but their government keeps them that way- I think that giving money to them is great and a very worthy cause, but we have to tackle the real issue otherwise nothing will change.

    Money isnt the route of all evil, the people who control it are.

    ‘Money often costs too much’~Ralph Waldo Emerson

    ooh talking of money, just managed to buy smallville series 3, loving it!!!

    Sorry if my talk was vague, but I havent really ever thought about money, but i’m gonna check out this microfinancing, that sounds like a truly worthy cause.

    Thankyou Muse!

    Rheiner

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  31. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:50 am

    Not much time now but I wanted to mention that the “Love of Money” quote is actually a pretty widespread mis-quote. It is the LOVE of money that is the root of all evil according to the Bible — not using it or having it. But it was a sin to charge interest and it was said that “It is harder for a rich man to enter heaven than for a rope to pass through the eye of a needle.” That corrects another mis-quote. Also, it is the Roots that are the evil of any good dye job. AND it is better to TEACH a man to fish than to smell like one!

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  32. Pzzlno Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 3:11 am

    Hi Allison,
    I’ve never heared about something like that. I think it would be a great thing to try in my country. Here in Argentina there is a plan that gives money to poor people for doing nothing and in many cases is worse becouse they do nothing to make a change in their lives. Many of these people have thoughts like “why would I work if the goverments pays me the same?” and it’s not fair to those who try to move on. I read about this microfinance thing and I think is a great way to realy help people to success by giving some help with a sort of compromise. This money they are given has a concret objetive and this is the hope I think they need becouse many of them think that tey can’t do anything and need this hope.

    About your guilty feelings, I think it’s not OK that you feel like that just for loveing what you do. You have the oportunity to do what you like. You shouldn’t feel guilty but lucky.

    Tell us what you are going to do now that you are on vacations. Come to Argentina, it’s a great place.

    Pzzlno – http://www.Smallville.com.ar

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  33. Вова Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 3:16 am

    Hello Allison!

    I think that “microfinancing” will help many people if only they will use this opportunity with mind(wit)!

    To be generous means to be kind!

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  34. Ant Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 3:31 am

    I don’t think there is any reason to feel guilty about earning money for doing something you enjoy – you tend to enjoy doing things you are good at, and are therefore using skills that are worth money. I’ve done work that I wasn’t very good at and didn’t enjoy – that seemed like hard work, but I doubt I really earned what I was paid for it. Then there is work that I am good at and enjoy doing. That’s when I really end up working hard and earning my keep, even if it sometimes doesn’t seem like “work” at all!

    I don’t know much about acting (other than the fact that I couldn’t act my way out of a paper bag!) but from what I’ve seen it always looked like hard work to me. 7:30am is a FINISH time?? If you’re having fun, great, but it doesn’t mean you’re not working hard! Nobody who has avidly followed Chloe’s adventures for six years could begrudge you earning money for it!

    I think if money is the root of any evil, it is only the lust for money, not the possession or use of it (well, maybe some uses of it!). I hope this is just a UK thing, but it seems to me that these days everyone is increasingly determined to get hold of everyone elses money for as little effort as possible. Those are the people that should feel guilty about the money they make. Scams, rip-offs and “get rich quick” schemes are becoming noticably common and it has a negative effect on everyone involved. But then I guess this is really simply about selfishness and greed rather than actual money.

    Thanks for another interesting blog and enjoy your break! I’m off to check out those microfinancing sites (sounds like a great idea) and to find out more about this Gandhi fellow…

    Anthony.

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  35. Anson Bui Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 3:35 am

    I can’t believe I’m going to be the second comment on here. Sweet.

    You are awesome.

    Microfinancing is also awesome. I first heard of it awhile ago while watching a documentary film about some developing country (I forget which one). Man, we sure do take for granted money here in the US. $50 here is enough for one to start a business in another country. Pretty crazy.

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  36. DAVID,S Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:04 am

    Hi! ALLISON: The quote by GHADH

    hi! ALLISON: The quote by GANDHI is based on the Bible verse “The love of money is the root ( basis) of all evil” For Dictators,etc. It is the love of power over people. In any case,CAPITOL, etc. is a means to an end. Too many times, a selfish personal agenda. Personally, I prefer the selfless agenda of GOD.
    You have not fallen victim to the love of money. Since the next number of weeks will be more relaxing for you. Many of us would appreciate if you would consider adding a response to several of the previous week’s commentors. How they aided in your inner quest for truth. And finally, TABBY, I appreciate your professionalism shown in this web page.—–Your friend! k.d.S.

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  37. Ken Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:06 am

    Egg McMuffins, mmm!! I like.

    Off-topic, Allison, but since this is conversational, I’ll venture a topic. Something near to your heart. Is art by definition revolutionary? If we look back at the history of the visual arts or music, for example, we see them marked by what are described as revolutions. For example, the introduction of perspective in painting, the impressionists and their use of dots of colors, etc. Similar highlights could be listed for music. So, the question: Is art by definition revolutionary? I’ll hand it over to you to you. Your thoughts? Perhaps start this conversation with your fans. Cheers!

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  38. usman Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:29 am

    well; as much as we should talk of microfinancing and stuff like that, i do believe that somewhere along the line individuals have a responsibility too. i mean to say that many who comment on this, maybe tabby, allison other actors make a lot more money than they could spend. why not find out some person you can help. maybe finance a kid’s education. living in a developing country myself i have seen instances where kids are begging on streets without shoes and rich guys pass by in the SUVs, mercedes etc. without a thought for them.

    i beleive that the world will be a better place if every individual tried to lessen his luxuries so that he may fulfil someone’s basic needs. and that’s the only way to fight poverty, economic injustices. Not IMF, world bank or even Grameen.

    i read of an editor who decided to reduce the number of clothes he bought and spent the saving to buying clothes for poor people. that’s the kind of initiative we need and i guess that’s what Gandhi meant.

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  39. Yoshi Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:34 am

    Hello! :)

    I think it’s awesome that you are blogging & not just blabbering about random things but something that you’ve been learning or something that makes all of us think.

    *Yoshi* (24 yrs girl from Japan :)

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  40. AFA Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:36 am

    I would LOVE to read it, but I’m off to school. As to the first paragraphs, No kiss, hour early! Sounds fun…… i think!! Have fun! I’ll come back and read this I PROMISE!

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  41. meg Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:57 am

    awww man! no Egg McMuffins and no kiss :( ..my Chlarky heart is sad…teeheee….but i’ll live! :)

    anways…interesting topic though….”Money is the root of all evil”. we hear that alot, but I dont think it is money itself, but how it is used. Just like anything else actually…power, influence, prestige… An individual can take a very beneficial item and abuse its use, thereby making it into something negative.

    Money management is definitely a skill. I know of people who are ridiculously rich, but cannot seem to find a way to save, and are always worried about debt because all they do is spend. On the other hand, there are others who have little, but somehow make this little work wonders for them…simply because they know how to manage it properly.

    When you consider the distribution of wealth in this country, my thoughts are staggering and somewhat sad. There’s another saying: “the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.” Sometimes there is an unspoken implication that the “poor” get poorer because they are lazy, and just expect handouts, and dont go out and work hard for what they want etc. I beg to disagree. Maybe in some circumstances yes, that may be the case. But I have learned that circumstances can change because of OPPORTUNITY…and the availability of resoucres to them…and sometimes a visicious cycle occurs where the poor are not subject to as much opportunity as the rich, and thus are not given as many chances to prove themselves and work themselves out of poverty. That is a sad reality I have seen.

    As for you feeling bad because you make money and love what you do…..i must ask: WHY?? :) ….can you imagine how many people would be happier and more satisfied if they got paid to actually do something they loved? I think everyone is searching for that wonderful balance. Many work simply because they need the money to live, and it’s not about enjoying the job, but getting the paycheck….so you having that balance…..well, be happy about it girl!!!!!!! :) …and who says you dont work?…..long hours, doing scenes over and over….looking at Tom Welling every day….*eyes glaze over*…yeah….work…really hard work…count me in as someone who wants your work. *sly grin*

    but seriously, you do..be proud of it, and at the end of the day, know you earned the money you made. Once you have that money, manage it. use it wisely so that you can take care of yourself for years to come.

    ok..unless i think of more, that’s it for me Allison. Now that you are done filming, I guess you and the cast are off for break. Have a great week!

    meg

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  42. Carlos Candelaria Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:59 am

    Today was my first visit to your website and I have to say I was impressed by what I read. I usually stay away from blogs due to the nonsense people tend to talk about, but to see you writing from your heart, and in a way, educating on new ways to improve this shallow world we live in, was pretty refreshing. I’ve always been a huge fan of the show and i’ve always been a Chloe fan, but today i’m officially an Allison Mack fan. I applaude your efferts and I will be check in daily for updates and new blogs.

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  43. Peggy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:02 am

    Hey Allison:

    I work at our local foodbank and I have to say, I wish it wasn’t needed but it is. And I’ll tell you, when somebody comes in and says I haven’t been here in 6 months, you can feel the pride in that statement. That they were self-sufficient for those 6 months and yet they know, it’s okay not to be all the time. Besides, they miss our sunny faces and the confidence that we give them. Course, there are the bad apples sometimes but it doesn’t
    happen often.

    I loved your statement about overcoming and helping others overcome it. I know that when somebody you love dies, it will never go away but you have gone through it and can help other’s through it too. Also, when something happens in the fandom’s I’m in—something I’ve gone through, I am there to help. Explains why I moderate so many lists, I guess.

    As to money being the root of all evil—I think that money can be, if used wrong. But if used right, it can be a blessing too. And you work hard for that money, sweetie. You learned your craft and trust me, not a lot of us can do what you do because of insecurities and such. I applaud anybody who can go up in front of a camera and do what they do. And you are one of the best—I can tell you, when you and MR are up on that screen, you both shine through for me and a good friend, who tends to squee. And trust me, that’s a good thing.

    In conclusion, I would like to share something that I watched last night. It’s a Hallmark movie that I watched called Crossroads: A Story Of Forgiveness. I sat there, crying most of the night. To lose your wife and daughter to street racing and yet turn around and not put the young man in jail, so he won’t turn into a hardened criminal, was good. And to forgive him and set up a program to tell kids about the danger in street racing, was beyond that—it was incredible. You can find out about this amazing human being and what he did at:

    link

    Well, off to do some cleaning. Thanks again for the wonderful words and incredible blog, Allison.

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  44. sailfindragon Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:24 am

    It has been wonderful reading your blog entries and you views on some of the subjects that affect the world we live in.
    I have to agree that money is not the root of all evil and in fact it is what we do with it that can make a difference either way.
    Unfortunately, it is a sad fact of life that there are still many countries in the world that still are forced to live in conditions that most westerners find totally unacceptable. In most of these countries corrupt goverments are largely to blame for this and any money that the country makes in largely spent on feeding the small minority that are only interested in lining there own pockets, instead of going out to the people that desperately need it.
    I consider myself very fortunate, I earn a very good salary and my 5 children have never had to know what poverty is like. But unfortuately there are many children out there in the world that live with poverty on a daily basis and their parents are helpless to do anything about it. Most of these people like you said, don’t want handouts, they want a chance to work for what they get so they can better their lives themselves and be proud of what they have achieved.
    But until we can more people can put pressure on some of these goverments to change there ways, there will always be countries in this world thats people need help from others. Until that happens people like us will have to keep doing our bit and helping out when we can.

    Many thanks for sharing your views

    Deborah

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  45. ClarkandChloe06 Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:54 am

    No McMuffins? How dare they *laughs* I hope they at least gave you a hot cup of coffee.

    Thanks Allison for another great blog :)

    It’s true I think money is misrepresented in today’s society,I too think it’s funny that we choose to blame our problems on an inanimate object instead of looking at it and recognizing that it isn’t the money that creates the issue; it is what we as human beings choose to do with this money that creates the struggles. There are so many poeple living in poverty today, it’s becoming a huge issue around the world. It’s gotten so bad that some elderly people are having trouble paying for their medicine,and people are losing their homes to foreclosure.

    I’ve never heard of “Microfinancing” before but it sounds like a great program. I’m going to check out the website above and read more about it and see what I can do to help. Take Care Allison :)

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  46. Darwin Seed Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:55 am

    Actually…LOVE of money is the problem with money. That invokes all those selfish and negative tendancies and leads to cheating and hurting people for it. Which actually has nothing to DO with real love, and makes it a misnomer.
    As an aboriginal (Native American to you south of the border types – I’m personally okay with “Indian” as well. People fault Christopher Columbus and a geographical error claiming “Indian” is also a misnomer, but perhaps he simply couldn’t spell indigenous;)
    Anyway, as a Native American I have seen what so called “free money” does to a culture and society. Every reserve in Canada has been in receivership at one time or another. The big problem with reserves in the 1920′s was that people lived in overcrowded, mold-infested, disease ridden shacks (tuberculosis was popular).
    The big problem today is that people live in overcrowded mold infested, disease-ridden shacks, with tuberculosis STILL maintaining a hold.
    Then you throw in political corruption, graft, bribes, murder, fixed elections…and you have the third world at home.
    Not exactly the “travel brochure” promotional picture people want painted.
    Plus we have the added bonus of addictions (legacy of residential schools and free money) and now casinos.
    Ever notice how casinos and addictions don’t mix well?
    With every treaty benefit tied to the reserve…the feds have not come up with a feasable economic model. Exactly how many competing businesses can one actually have on one reserve? And how many reserves actually have the urban proximity to be accessable to larger markets and have their businesses viable?
    It seems the only thing people come to reserves for is casinos.
    And then we’re back to that whole “love” of money and addictions and murder and corruptions thing.
    I have been successfully speaking against casinos and Native political corruption (Can you say unpopular? It’s pronounced DARWIN)
    But I have also been fighting to get positive images of natives in movies and television, positives stories. I have great respect for MR. URBAN of the current movie PATHFINDER as an actor. But basically it’s just another story of some white guy saving the natives because they couldn’t do it themselves. And they had to wait for the white guy to grow up first. Hows that for a self esteem boost?
    Non existent.
    Positive images reflected back at ourselves will help much like it did for our black brothers and sisters which hastened the end of segregation and brought Oscars, respect, Cosby, Oprah, black senators and now a balck man running for president.
    Thomas Edison made the first movie in North America and the natives were the scary bad guys. It has changed a little. But incrementaly so.
    See? I don’t just point out the problems, I have a happy practical solution. Boost a cultures self-esteem and self-image and show that there is more to life than gangs, prostitution, being politically corrupt or a casino greeter.

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  47. wilma Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:58 am

    I would complain to the manager if I were you :p :p

    The topic money is allways a difficult one.
    I don’t think that the money is a problem, but the things people do to get it. A lot of people think it’s the most important thing in te world…i don’t get that. Sure… having money can solve a lot of your (financial) problems…but it doesn’t make you happy. A lot of people believe that though, money is unfortunatly the nr1 reason to commit crimes….and those who will do anything to get money…they are the real evil.

    (sorry if my english sucks…I’m from holland…es tut mir leid)

    tot ziens,

    Wilma

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  48. MJ Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:10 am

    Hey Allison

    First, I want to say that this website is amazing. I discovered it last week and I think it’s brilliant!

    I checked out the 2 website’s you recommended and I think microfinancing is a very good idea and I can understand why you’re so excited about it.

    With microfinancing, pride isn’t a block for people to accept help. If I was poor, I probably wouldn’t just let anyone help me. I would probably be very proud.

    But with microfinancing you don’t lose your pride! And maybe that is one of the reasons microfinancing is such a good idea.

    Greetings from Holland,
    MJ

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  49. Aaron Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:15 am

    She works hard for the money
    So hard for it, honey
    She works hard for the money
    So you better treat her right

    All kidding aside, you do work hard for your money just because you enjoy your work doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get paid for it. If you enjoy your work, you are going to do a better job than someone who is just in it for the money. And let’s face it, they are making tons of money off ad revenue and if your portion wasn’t going to you it would just be going to the producers and networks. Personally from what I have already read on your blog I would much rather the money go to someone who works hard at their craft and actually seems to have a conscience about the money they make.

    That program sounds really interesting but I don’t think charity as a whole is a bad thing, especially when it comes to children. We have too many homeless children in the United States, a country that is seen as so prosperous shouldn’t have that problem, not with children. And then you have other countries around the world where there are children starving. I think no strings attached charity in those type situation are a very good thing. Then add to it education and skill building to try and better the community as a whole. And to anyone elsse reading, it doesn’t take tons of money or even tons of time to make a difference right in your own community. Chances are you have a homeless shelter in your community and they are always looking for donations or volunteers.

    Anyway didn’t mean to jump up on my soapbox there :) I’ll turn this blog back over to Allison.

    Money isn’t the root of all evil, but greed may be.

    Thanks for taking the time to read,

    Aaron

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  50. Joe Licata Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:15 am

    Now I am not a religious person at all (well in terms of following any type of organized system) but this passage from the bible is often misquoted:
    “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” -1st Timothy 6:10

    Now this passage leads to the thought that when the love of money causes one to “worship” currency rather than ‘God’ it’s really bad!
    Again I am not religious but I understand the point.

    Unlike most in America (well at least that’s how it seems to me anymore) I do not view money as a means to get more “stuff”. Nor do I view it as some sort of way to “power”. It simply is needed to survive and that’s it.
    Now on the other hand, an over abundance of money (like if I hit the lotto) STILL is not a license for me to get tons of “stuff” or start to walk around with my nose in the air.
    Rather if I were fortunate enough to come into a massive amount of money via a lotto or something I would simply view it as a convenient way to more “freedom”.
    Heh heh heh the freedom to never, ever again have to wake to an alarm clock in the wee hours would be reward enough for me!

    Now of course I believe in charity and would give more richly to the various charities that I believe in but would I start buying three, four, five cars? Would I shun ever wearing just a good ol’ pair of Levi jeans and a t-shirt? No I wouldn’t.

    Like my dear ol’ Italian father says “money for sure does not buy happiness but man O’ man could I be miserable in the Bahamas.”

    I understand what he means. It’s that simple notion that money, or should I say an over abundance of it can be a GOOD thing! At the same time one could be way more charitable, one could also have a personal “freedom” to travel, to spend more time with what really matters like family, to continue an education without having to balance a 40 hour work with it or simply to just be able to “stop and smell the flowers”.

    I am not saying that you have to have tons of money to be able to do these things but with a substantial amount of it, used wisely, those above listed things could be done easier.

    So in short money is not evil. It’s what is done to get it and how it’s used that can be evil.

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  51. Kristina Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:18 am

    Good Morning,

    I must tell you that Monday mornings are a much less dreaded and much more anticipated start of the week since you’ve fired up this weekly blog!

    Money is a screwy topic because no matter how little or how much people have, EVERYBODY has what they perceive to be “money troubles.” When the reality is that most of us in the US live pretty darn well compared with other nations’ residents. I have heard of the idea of microeconomics, but have not read up on it. The gist of it is a fantastically optimistic way to view the future of developing countries. I immediately remembered the proverb, “Give a man a fish–feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish–feed him for a lifetime.” I have never agreed with “handout” programs as they have been sustained by charitable organizations. Food and medical provisions are often necessary as an immediate response to emergency situations such as draught, crop failure, political strife, etc. But to create a permanent system on which poverty stricken populations must rely is demeaning and counterproductive. Handouts keep people ALIVE, but it denies them the opportunity to really LIVE. And on a slightly more self-centered perspective, helping developing nations to build strong productive communities will save in incredible amount of money in the long run because these nations will become less dependent upon foreign aid.

    The ironic part of this story though is that all of the countries which we label as “developing” or “third world” were doing just fine until they were colonized. They were invaded and subjugated; the land was stripped of its resources; the wildlife and landscape were diminished, and once the existing civilizations crumbled, we (the World Powers) decided to swoop in and “save” them from a condition we caused and patted ourselves on the back for doing such altruistic work.

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  52. Adam Anouer Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:58 am

    Nice McMuffins for breakfast. Thanks again for such a detailed & dedicated blog entry. As for the quote money is something everyone likes myself included but its not a bad thing however if its used the wrong reasons yeah but even then its not the moneys fault that it was used for the wrong reasons. I dont useually blame inanimate objects though but i do sometimes blame fate or myself (In the case its my fault). Money can cause trouble though people kill for it,they steal it they even counterfit it. I personally am not that fortunate money wise but i have what i need and that doesnt bother me in the slightest if you have more good for you if you dont then unlucky. “Money is the root of all evil” i personally wonder where that saying comes from its not about money though its about power and that is the real root of all evil. You shouldnt feel guilty about getting money for acting i mean after all you entertain and inspire alot of fans with your acting and your personality and your doing something you love so you shouldnt feel guilty because you actually enjoy a job that pays you. Thanks to you and alot of other Actors/Actresses i’ve been inspired to go for a career in acting myself.

    Thanks for reading

    Adam Anouer

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  53. Jen Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:00 am

    Do not feel guilty about the money you make. I have felt guilty for having such a comfortable life as well, and my husband and I are teachers. So that is rediculous as the profession is known to be realatively low pay. So don’t worry about it. All of us females seem to have a need to feel guilty for something, or maybe we are mistaking compassion for others as guilt for having a good life ourselves.

    So enjoyed you in the show. You have completely entertained this mom (after the kids are in bed) – my guilty pleasure is watching Smallville. Thanks!!

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  54. aqgalaxy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:05 am

    Woe, you are quiet the thinker I take it. Oh thats a good thing :D

    I am familiar with microfinancing and I thought it was a very captivating idea, and am apart of it, well my husband is, he manages the money, I just spend it LOL. Anywho back on topic, I think many people like to think money is the root of evil, but truthfully it’s not. Money is basically a need. Like Gandhi stated, capital in any form is needed. Money’s sole purpose is to manage transactions better. It’s bartering. Instead of giving you a pot for a pot, I give you bills and coins for the pot. So it is used to make life easier… in that sense. However it’s when one person treats money like a tool and uses it for personal gain and power, thats when you see the greed and thats what leads to evil. Believe me… my Uncle, used to be a decent kind, respectful man, now after a huge increase in his income… he became so snotty! He wanted more more more… Like he ate a potato chip and can’t stop himself from finishing the bag. Money doesn’t change people, the feeling of power when having money changes people.

    I think if you use your money to benefit others. Like this microfinancing… you are giving people a chance in 3rd world countries to help them develop their nation. That is beneficial and it is nice to know other support you when you are trying to start something and you want that feeling for others so once you are established you do the same for others. It would unite people a little better. Honestly the world is like that today, no country is truly financially dependent, we are all interdependent with one another. We support one another. If US’s economy goes down, it would effect China, and Europe bringing both down with it, same with Russia’s and other nations. But when one improves we all basically improve. Using money to help people, now that is what’s right, we all in something together and helping one another improve.

    Little history tidbit- No Wars were ever caused because of money, it was only powered by money.

    I think if help others in the end we help ourselves cause you make a friend and a partner, someone who appreciates you an looks at you with respect and you look back with admiration and heart full of pride.

    I really want to address your concern you state about yourself “I know this to be true because I do it, consistently. I, often times, feel very guilty about the money that I make because I love what I do so much…” Sweetheart, don’t look at it like that LOL. You have a job like everyone else. You work to improve yourself in that job right? You learn stuff to help you progress yourself right? Thats hard work, every job requires hard work, and you obviously a hard worker. But sweetie you are actually thinking the effort you are putting in to your work doesn’t count cause you love what you are doing and having fun? Girl you know how silly that sounds. You love your job and you make it fun and enjoyable nothing wrong with that. You are getting payed for what you love to do… that doesn’t sound wrong, I mean getting payed for something you dread doing… MONEY would be the only thing out of it. You love what you do, don’t treat it as if you don’t deserve it call it a bonus! You love doing what you do, we love what you do, so having fun at your job is a bonus. Remember bonus!

    Aright well that was my two euros…

    Ciao Bella, remember Italia Loves you!

    Gabriela

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  55. stephanie Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:16 am

    Hi Allison.
    I come from France and I just wanted to say that you are an amazing actress and so you are my favourite. I remmber again when you came in Paris in 2005 it was great, this year it was Michael Rosenbaum but I didn’t go.
    Finally thank you for your beautiful blog that you make it ‘s fantastic.

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  56. FC Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:18 am

    The attraction of the microfinancing system is definately in it’s empowering nature and support for self-determination. One of the most underappreciated reasons why the United States developed into an economic power is that support for entrepreneurship (I challenge anyone to spell that without a dictionary) is endemic in our laws and customs. On the one hand things like bankruptcy laws limit downside, but especially as a cultural matter, business failure is not looked at as harshly as it is in other places. I think anything that supports this in developing economies is a strong step foward.

    As for your personal guilt over money…I can also relate to this. I basically quit my last job because i felt underserving of my pay. It’s not just guilt, but also the pressure of high expectations that comes with high compensation. It took a lot of introspection to understand that sometimes the standards I set for myself are not always reasonable. I still strive to do great things, but I’m more comfortable with that being a journey.

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  57. Amanda Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:19 am

    Kissing Tom Welling….Egg McMuffin…., Kissing Tom Welling…. Egg McMuffin…I’ll take–BOTH!! haha

    I do want to say I very much enjoyed Progeny. I know this blog is about more than Smallville but I wanted you to know how much I enjoy your work. (and Lynda Carter–my childhood hero–what more can I say?) My heart went out to Chloe when she had to loose her mother all over again. Don’t be ashamed of your craft, it really touched me.

    Ok–back to your blog. The old saying “Give man a fish, you’ll feed him for a day; Teach a man to fish, you’ll feed him for life” comes to mind here. There are so many societies that long to feed themselves but, due to many different reasons, have not been given the knowledge or resources to do so. I have never been fond of the idea of handouts as a permanent fix. In reality, what does it fix? Until people are able to help themselves, it’s like putting a bandaid on a gaping wound. That’s why I’m so impressed with organizations such as the ones posted above. Those are two groups helping correct a problem with solutions that really work. I’m challenged by that!

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  58. ekaranja Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:53 am

    First of, let me say I love your work in Smallville. You do a smashing job every week and I always enjoy Chloe’s loyalty to her friends and her fight to pursue the truth. I believe that as much as it’s a character you are portraying, you have those qualities as well and that is why you do such a great job.

    I’ve really been enjoying reading your blog. Its nice to know that you have time from you busy schedule to open up to your fans and inspire many to live life above the norm. Money has brought out the best and worst in many and like you said, we have no one to blame but ourselves when we use it unwisely. Having grown up in a third world country, I can tell you that programs like Kiva are helping many people achieve their dreams. I myself believe that education is the best weapon we have against poverty today and that more should be done to provide young children with the right education. When we put the right information in people’s hand’s, there is no limit to what they can achieve with it.

    Keep on smiling as you have a beautiful smile and thanks for sharing a part of your life with us.

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  59. andregois Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:03 am

    Hi Allison!

    Wow! This is a big problem on earth: money. It’s so sad because, even with people like you, that truly belive in humanity feelings and don’t give up, we still live like we aren’t from the same planet.

    We are all very proud of you, and I really love it!

    For a better world… Congratulations!

    Hope!

    André

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  60. Robin Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:07 am

    Dear Allison,

    Wow, yet another HUGE issue raised on your blog!

    What great topics to discuss, yet again, a big THANK YOU for taking time to share your views and have such important issues discussed by your fans. I really enjoy reading the varied responses by all concerned.

    Is the money the route to all evil?mmm, well I think you can commit good and evil acts regardless of your bank balance, although it could be argued that the extent of such acts are magnified by how much (if you are merely measuring in monitary terms).

    I imagine like fellow posters here, I feel GUILTY about this topic, merely because we are part of the developed western system, where I spend time and money buying items I have no real need for, such as a camera, tv, MG3 player,dvds (dare I say it even my Smallville DVD collection!)

    Although I have to constantly worry about trying to pay the mortgage, loans and utility bills as well as the weekly shop to the supermarket (who doesn’t), I find it very difficult to imagine a lifestyle in developing countries where they have to worry about where their next meal is coming from day to day.

    When you make that comparison, I feel ashamed that I stress out and worry about such trivial things that ,when you think about it, are not worth the time and energy!

    I have briefly read the link concerning KIVA and I must say the idea seems very worthy, and you touch on a key point about human pride, a very important element rather than a mere handout(although I do think certain charities should be given even more funds to help with specific causes).
    I shall read up more on the subject..time to see if I REALLY can be the change I wish to see in the World!

    Hope you and all the Smallville team enjoy your much deserved hiatus,

    All the best,,

    Robin

    England

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  61. Leidiana Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:11 am

    Hi,Allison!

    Good,I only am here, for the second time to say that I admire you very,and I adore its work.You is a very pretty professional fantastic!And, a beauty uneven!!! I am of Brazil, and as you must perceive have many fans of Brazil, smallville you are a very great success here!
    I love you

    Kisses! =)

    Leidiana

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  62. arianna Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:17 am

    hey allison i’m a italian girl, smallville’s fan..my english is very bad!for me you are a good person..can you contact me? i’m very happy!really.. bye bye arianna

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  63. elroyofkrypton Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:18 am

    Gandhi derives most of his deas from the New Testament. In Timothy 6:10 it says

    For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

    It is clear that those who covet money, who want more than they can use or store away for future needs, can be evil. The symbol of the dragon, such as in Raphael’s St. George Slaying the Dragon, means greed in Western culture, for he amasses treasure with no means to use it, and even captures a young maid with no possible way to have a relationship with her. He just wants.

    But having money is neutral. A doctor may have a large income, but consider what a good doctor does to prepare for his/her career. Consider what a talented doctor does. A doctor friend of mine invented the tools that are used in heart catheterization. His invention saved both of my parents’ lives at some point in their elder years. My mother is alive right now, but would be dead without my friend. He has more money than Carter has Little Liver Pills. He deserves every penny. I’d give him more if I had it.:)

    Amassing wealth without a plan to do good with it seems useless to me. Microeconomics is a great way to use wealth to change a lot of lives. Did you know that with a mere 26 bucks, you can buy a slave out of bondage, and with 56 bucks, you can equip that now-former slave with a new start in life? Check out iAbolish at http://www.iabolish.com/.

    On the other hand, take our firends in China, who are now thought to have put melamine in rice and wheat gluten in order to artificially boost the protein content of their product used in Canadian dog and cat food factories. Plastic protein is killing dogs and cats all over the world because of a desire to make money. That is nothing, however, to the idea that human beings are bought and sold for money. It boggles the mind, but it has been that way for countless millenia. There are now more slaves than at any other time in history. All for the love of money.

    Unregulated capitalism is problematic, but regulated capitalism has great promise. Micreconomics can’t work in a highly centralized economic system, such as the former Soviet Union, and not every developing country has vast reserves of oil to finance Chavez-style socialism. Capitalism isn’t perfect, but I’ll take it over systems that violate economic natural law any day.

    Great episode last Thursday. Love it when you are featured.

    Best regards and enjoy your break.

    elroy

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  64. hanna1804 Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:22 am

    Hi Allison ! I’m from France (Paris) and this is actually the first time I wrote something on this blog, so I hope you’ll understand…LOL.

    First I just wanted to say that you’re an amazing and talented person (even if I don’t know you personally), you’re such a great actress and Smallville is the first show that I’ve become a fan (mostly thanks to you, I have to admit it ;D)

    About Smallville, it is an amazing show and I think you play a big part to its success ! I hope you’re power will be great like you’re character is ;D It has to be great !! LOL. There are rumors (but I don’t believe them and I don’t want to) that there will be one character who’s going to die in the season finale, and a lot of people think that it’s you. I think that it isn’t you because the writers just gave you a power, and it will be very stupid (sorry) to kill your character off ! Even if it’s for Lois that you might die !! LOL. Any comments ? Please…
    And just one more thing : Clark & Chloe forever !!! LOL. I’m a huge fan of this couple and I make videos about them ;D They’re just so sweet together even if it’s just friendship (I hope just for now…) Their relationship is so beautiful !

    There was the Jules Verne Festival on Friday 20th, 2007 (2 days after my birthday !!) and I saw Michael Rosenbaum who is so funny and adorable ! I spend a really really good time, but you weren’t there so it could have been better… But it was ok though. I saw an interview from you to John Glover, and it was really sweet to see how much you are close, really sweet :D I hope he’s spending a good time in Broadway ;D
    I just hope that in the next Festival, you’ll be here, because I didn’t have the chance to see you in 2005 when you came :(

    So, about the topic, just a little thing to say : MONEY is HARMFUL ! I mean, why some people (and there are numerous) always want more and more money, more and more power ? We live in a world that is torn apart because of the money, always the money ! Why can’t we all of us just have the same quantity of money ? And why is there a huge gap between the wealthiest and the poorest ? I always say that if I had a lot of money, I’ll do something for the persons who live in worse conditions than me. Well, ok, money can be good, can do good things, but unfortunately, it isn’t enough and most of the time it’s the subject of lots of conflicts in our homes but also in our world.

    I hope I didn’t make a lot of mistakes and it wasn’t too boring.

    You’re just the best.

    Hanna.

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  65. Dyan Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:22 am

    As usual, Allison, I never fail to be amazed by you.:) Lots of love

    Always your biggest fan,
    Dyan

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  66. leothelion Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:30 am

    What?…no season finale kiss? Poor Tom, I guess his string of luck had to run out at some point. I hope you guys atleast bought him a bag of Egg McMuffins to ease the pain….Hah…

    Never feel guilty for income gainfully earned the honest way. I’d simply view your income as the fruits of years of dilligence & hard work. It’s not inherently wrong to be rewarded for honest efforts made to be the best at what you do. Millions of people invest years in education to acquire the skills necessary to excel in a free open market economy. These people will have to decide for themselves whether the reward was worth the investment of time & energy spent in pursuing their dreams. And, Allison you’ll simply have to do the same…..you’ll have to define for yourself what the final reward has been in the end. But, the economic rewards you’ve received are just the logical end result of the efforts you’ve made…..there’s no need to apologize for that. It’s not a crime to succeed, but it is a crime to turn a deaf ear to the cries of those who are in desperate need.

    I admire your concern for others, and I praise you for your compassion. But, to me, true compassion begins at home. I’ve seen poverty in the U.S. you might better expect to find in developing nations abroad. There are many right here in the U.S. that are living so far below the poverty line that just a week’s supply of groceries is cause for tears and celebration.

    I like the economic ideas that you’ve suggested, and I believe it could bring hope to many who otherwise go to sleep fearful at what life will bring at first light the following day. I’d love to see programs of this nature here at home, and I’d be interested in any serious domestic outreach that lifts up my own countrymen. In the end, what praise do I have if I help a stranger in need and yet ignore the cries of my own brother who has faithfully walked with me?

    Love with all your heart, forgive always & live passionately.

    Love & Peace.

    –leothelion–

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  67. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:31 am

    Allison,

    First off, let me say that you shouldn’t feel guilty about making whatever money that you are making now. People will be re-watching your performances for years and not paying you an additional penny for the privilege. I dearly hope that you will continue to have the career you deserve after “Smallville,” but a “Gigli” can happen to even the best performers and you may get stuck making due by singing at billionaires’ birthday parties for a mere $3 million dollars a pop, so put plenty of money aside!

    I visited a tenant of mine a couple months back. She is so poor that the rent on her 3 bedroom house with 2 full baths is subsidized 100%. In her formal dining room is a state of the art computer system which she uses to do her homework because she is going to college full time. In the living room, a 70 inch wide screen TV. The house is full of the toys that belong to her 3 children. This is one face of poverty in America. As the son of a minister, we got by with far less than this woman scrapes by with, but I had an epiphany when I was young watching TV on my 13 inch black and white TV (which was able to pull in 4 channels!). I realized how rich I was. Seriously! I realized that Louis XIV of France never had it as good as did. Did Louis XIV have central heating? Did he have air conditioning? Could he have any kind of food despite what season of the year it was? If he got sick, was there anyone who really had a clue what to do about it? But most of all, I could flick on the TV and see the world’s finest entertainers. They came to my house and performed feats that poor Louis never imagined possible. I got fooled into believing that I was visiting other worlds and times. I was indeed rich.

    Sometimes I forget about the millions spent each week just to entertain me and forget for a moment how rich I am … then something happens that forces me to see how rich everyone around me is. A society’s wealth can be judged by the quality of its garbage … and by what it considers garbage. Let me digress. This is what I came to understand to be the life cycle of clothing as I was raised to understand it. New clothes start out as dress clothing that you wear with caution and change out of when you get home. Eventually they are old enough that you don’t have to change out of them. Still later, you change out of them if anyone special comes to visit – at that point they are weekend only clothes. Then they become work clothes for those dirty jobs. Then rags.

    A short time ago, I needed rags and I couldn’t find the rag bag. I have been backed into the corner before and bought rags at Lowes or Home Depot that are new material made specifically to become shop rags. No way was I going to do that this time. The job was dissolving glue and sopping it up before it could re-solidify. These rags were going to be used only once before disposal. No washings – no second use. I wasn’t going to buy so called rags from the store. So I went to Goodwill because I understood that clothing they couldn’t sell for re-use as clothing was sold as rags. I bought two huge garbage bags full for $5.00 a bag. I got home, put on my work clothes and got set up to work. I reached into the bag and pulled out … a Tommy Hilfiger designer sweatshirt with the original sales labels still on it. I immediately looked at the T-shirt I was wearing – a misprinted Florida T-shirt I had purchased a decade before. What printing was still on it was pealing off yet I still considered it work clothes with a few years left in it. In my hand was something brand new. I thought it must be a mistake. I put it aside and went through about 30 shirts in each of the bags trying to find something that even looked like it had been worn. Maybe 3 shirts looked used. The scissors trembled in my hand as I tried to bring myself to cut a shirt up as a rag. I should have just gone into my closet and destroyed the clothes I wear every day instead … but I finally forced myself to violate yet another of my ideals by destroying perfectly good shirts to get the job at hand done. Are we so wealthy that things we have never worn are considered trash? As I am able, I am going to begin buying “rags” from Goodwill and taking them to a world missions facility a few miles out of town. Some people in Africa will enjoy the rags we won’t wear. As to worrying about their self-esteem at receiving what we throw out, I think that the people who have esteem issues due to being helped just aren’t down to the depth of poverty where their very survival is at stake – a level that maybe we can’t imagine. I think we should give them the shirts and teach them that they can wear them proudly knowing that they have a superior understanding of what is valuable than we ever will.

    Most of the shirts turned out to be for events for which someone printed shirts to mark the occasion and made too many. I think the next time I consider doing that, I’ll print stickers that say “I gave my novelty T-shirt to someone that needed something to wear.” Of course, if I had my way, many of the people making T-shirts would be thrown out of work and sink into poverty … and be forced to sit at home watching their 70 inch TV wondering when they’d be able to afford another trip to Disney World.

    Hmmmm. What was the topic?

    Take Care,

    David

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  68. Amy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 9:16 am

    shame about the Egg McMuffins lol

    anyway, I enojy reading theese weekly blogs they really put me in the right mind of thinking. As for Money it can bring out the worse in people and used for selfish needs and were all to blame for that at some point in your lives, I guess in many ways it is the source of all evil and causes so many problems, I belive if we actually thought about the damage caused by scamming after money then maybe we could make a difference to poverty.. just maybe..

    seriously thanks for the blogs I used the last one to help me in my studies so thankyou for that.. I just hope I got a good grade.

    As for Smallville im going to have to wait a loong time for the season finale.. the problems of living in England *sigh* and the no Chloe/Clark Kiss.. makes it disaponting but I bet its gonna rock!

    AmzxXx

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  69. Carol Ann Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 9:20 am

    I was raised by my grandparents, who had a limited (fixed) income and no savings, but I never went without. We were the richest family in the neighborhood because we had something that is so much more important that money, we had love. Now I know how cliche’ that sounds and I often wince when I hear myself say these things out loud, but it is the truth. I watched my peers (the ones who were “better off than me”) grow up in broken homes. Their parents lavished them with material things because they were unable to give them what truly mattered. I came from a broken relationship (my parents divorced when I was a toddler), but thanks to my Nanna and Popop I did not come from a broken home. I think there is a distinct difference. Relationships unravel all the time and often times the home crumbles with it. Thank God my grandparents had the insight to make sure that we had some place to go when my parent’s home crumbled. They got custody of us (the best thing that could have happened) and we had a pretty good childhood when my father was not in the picture.

    My humble childhood has made me a humble adult. I do not view status or money as a sign of wealth. It is easier to come into money than it is to come into true love. I do not measure success by the size of your house, the car you drive or what type of paper stock your business card is printed on. The richest people in the world are the ones who are surrounded by family and friends who love and adore them. I think I am richer than Rockefeller because I have the love of an amazing man (he is my angel), my small family (only my Mom and brother are left) and a few wonderful friends. I do not need to have a My Space page filled with hundreds of fake friends, the handful I have in real life make me feel like wealthiest person on the planet (not to knock anyone who has a MS account). I have been through dark times when I had no one, so I know what is truly important. I thank God for the insight, I see people who are not as wealthy as I am and I pray that they will experience happiness like mine some day.

    I am going to look into the two websites you posted. Prior to reading this blog I have never heard of micro-financing. My friends often joke that I suffer from an ostridge complex. I do not purposely ignore things, but I tend to get so wrapped up with the “little things” that I tend to forget to look at the big picture. For example, I drive the long way to and from school every single day just to spend time watching a group of deer that I have “befriended.” There is also a large number of woodchucks that feed in the same area (I love them, I think they are so cute). Some days I just stop at Tim Hortons and get myself breakfast and then I go down and sit just a few feet away from nature in all if its splendor and I just enjoy being alive.

    ~ Carol Ann

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  70. Doug A. Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 10:02 am

    I’m a bit upset about the lack of a Clark/Chloe kiss, but I’ll get over it.

    As far as microfinancing is concerned, I don’t know much about it, so I’m not going to try and base any opinion on it until I’ve researched it more thoroughly.

    Now, for money in general, you are spot on. It’s not the cash that creates the turmoil, it’s how it’s being used. People like to use the phrase “Money is the root of all evil.” That’s bogus. The phrase comes from the Bible, but has actually been taken completely out of context. The true scripture is more along the lines of “The love of money is the root of many evils.” I’m paraphrasing, but the point is that it’s not the money itself. Obsessing over monetary gain is always dangerous, but being wealthy is not a sin.

    You have no reason to feel guilty about what you do. To excel at something AND enjoy it is the ultimate dream! Just because you have fun doing your job doesn’t mean you don’t work hard. I know you work hard because it shows in your performance. Be happy that you’ve found that niche. I know I’m happy where I’m at right now. Most people in the world probably couldn’t say that.

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  71. Isabel Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 10:02 am

    HI, Allison!!!!
    I am Isabel, I am from Brazil.
    I liked your blog. It´s very cool.!!!
    And I am your fan!!!
    I just wanted to say “hiiiiiiiiiiii” from Brazil!!

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  72. andregois Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 10:06 am

    Hi Allison!!

    Wow, this is a big problem on earth: MONEY. It is so sad because, even with people like you, that belives in human feelings and don’t give up, we still living like we’re not from the same planet.

    We’re very proud of you! Congratulations!

    Hope…

    André

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  73. Doug A. Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 10:06 am

    I just noticed that a handful of others mentioned that Bible verse. Good to know that great minds think alike, people! :)

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  74. mélanie Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 10:42 am

    the money don’t make happiness even if some think the contrary. I think that the “microfinancing” is brilliant, because it makes it possible to help the people. I hope that the “microfinancing” will develop in much country because it is a super idea. sorry once again for my bad English. good continuation. Mélanie from France

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  75. JT Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 10:42 am

    Hey Allison!

    Money….root of all evil? No because there is evil out there that has nothing to do with money at all. just look at serial killers, they don’t kill for money they kill for pleasure. But because money is such an important thing to acquire and have it can create evil.

    Again I point out the creation of the character Lex Luthor. He is a power and money hungry megalomaniac, and because he has this hungry to obtain wealth and power, he’ll go about it by any means neccasary, even if it means hurting people that he knew or cared about or people who have nothing to do with him.

    If we want to see in today’s society what the lust for money and power can do, just look at the Iraqi war. Bush said we were over there to free the iraqi people from Husein’s tyracy, but the truth is, we are over there to secure the oil fields….

    Money does tend to bring out evilness in some, but its not completely the cause of all evil.

    PS Sorry no kiss from Tom or McMuffins…..

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  76. kluulss Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 11:03 am

    Oh this is so much a wonderful post. I come from a country they call ‘second world’…2nd world country people are less lazy and have better self esteem because of less hand outs if i say so myself. I would even do microfinancing if i had a bank! handouts DO give people in the third world low self-esteem. I bet most of them would much rather think highly of their ability to earn capital than eat.

    i agre with you more when i read “The Genesis of Capitalism amongst a South American Peasantry: Devil’s Labor and the Baptism of Money”, ever heard?

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  77. christopher paul taylor Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 11:09 am

    What is the price that we will pay,
    to make shure things go our way.
    A dollar hear or a million there,
    “The price of fredom,” do thay even care.
    Many a soul has been lost,
    for a gallon at twice the cost.

    Christopher Paul Taylor

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  78. RP Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 11:14 am

    I must say that it’s fun to see how people to the lack of Clark/Chloe kissing.

    To the topic: I admit that I find money tempting, I admit that I would love to get money for free. But I also admit that helping others with the money I get would be a priority (which I got from my father who is a very generous person). The way you use the money is of course one of the devestating means from it. Seeing how many rich people are corrupted (I’m not saying all of them are), you feel guilty of seeing how destructable people are. It’s sad to see how people ignore others for their own profit. These sites that you linked surely show how people can be kind and helpfull. It raises my spirit to see this. This means that the world isn’t impossible to save. I also think that more and more people realise what we have to do, and accordingly, do it. After beeing in both Kenya and Brazile, I’ve seen how the people have it there. That made me start thinking, and I hope to be able to travel to one of these countries that are in need of development, and work with voluntary work. I feel responsible for not helping out, and feel that I have the power to make changes in the world.

    And to the end. I just wish to say that I look forward to next weeks blog and this weeks episode of Smallville. Bye and once again, greetings from Sweden.

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  79. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 11:43 am

    As to the lack of a kiss in the finale, as long as Chloe didn’t get the kiss of death, I’m satisfied.

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  80. Knight1 Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 11:52 am

    What a great situation to be in…to actually love your job. Waking up every morning must be a delight. That is a rare commodity, to be able to enjoy your work…kudos

    I’ve had many jobs and all of them I’ve hated. I work only to support myself now. It’s too late & too much debt to change now; basically, I’m in to deep and was never able to find my niche to start over. Now everyday is drag.

    This idea of microfinancing is way cool & so simple. I prefer to contribute to that than some of these charities where you don’t know if your money is getting to the people. Some charities are so bizarre; their strategy is to send you unsolicited perks, pennies, nickels, mailing labels in the mail so that you will send them money. If they thought that through, common sense would tell them to keep those pennies, nickels & mailing labels and use that overhead cost towards the ones they claim to be helping.

    The mircofinancing is the ounce of prevention that can lead to the pound of cure…excellent concept. Thank for sharing.

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  81. jolina Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:17 pm

    Allison, what a beautiful soul you must have.

    Firstly, I’d like to say that it’s heartening to know that people such as yourself have whatever silly amount of money *grins* you are alluding to. Is it that you think others could do the same job as well (not many, I suspect)? OK, address that. Yes, Allison, there are a lot of talented people out there who will never make the amount of money you are making, and who may never even be given the chance to. And as much as I’d like to write that it’s what you do with your money that’s important, actually, no, that’s not it at all. It’s the way you live and what you do with any amount of power you’ve been blessed with that is important. And we all have that power. When all is said and done, your money doesn’t mean anything, but what you do with every moment and every opportunity you are given to be whatever “change” you’d like to see in the world and spread that to others, that’s important. And perhaps your money affords you with more unique opportunities to do just that. Maybe so, but I doubt it. We all have that power; the scene is just different, our opportunities/the people we meet/our talents–are different.

    You are blessed for whatever reason with your unique opportunities to touch lives—we all are—so I say, do your best with what you’ve been given. Ha, a quote just occurred to me: To whom much is given, much is expected. Well, I’m sure there are plenty of people who have more money than they know what to do with and who aren’t expected to do much. What that pearl should mean when heard is: what do you do with what you see in the world? With your knowledge and power? With your unique abilities and talents? And how often do we recognize a blessing when we are given one? I think the more blessings we count, the more we get (perhaps because we are paying attention to them!).

    I must say, what an amazing group of fans you have! I recall an interview with Tom Welling wherein he was asked what he thought of fame. He replied that he was surprised that people were interested in what he has to say. That’s an interesting topic, really: Why are we interested? Why am I writing this? I have a few thoughts on that, but perhaps another time. Certainly it’s a fine line between healthy and unhealthy interest, especially where people you don’t know/have never met is concerned. That aside, I am so grateful to have ran into your blog, Allison—it’s made me an even bigger fan. I’ll keep my eyes on you : )

    Thank you, and take care!

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  82. Amy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:31 pm

    Hey, shame about the whole no kiss thing.. and egg Mcmufins

    As for money it can affect the way a person is, lusting after money can change the person, personally i belive that it isnt the money its the person to become root of all evil, i just belive that the money moves it along, Im guilty of taking money for granted and not using it rightly.. I belive everyone is guilty of this.. and if maybe we stopped and thought about all those without money.. that they can use for some unselfish cause the world would be a better place but people dont think and thats the problem, so basically I think Money isnt the cause of all evil.. but its deff up there..

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  83. Rochelle G Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:33 pm

    Hey,
    I never realized that Gandhi said so many wise things, then again I don’t really know a whole lot about him. It’s been pretty exiting to see what topic you will address next. It would be fun to have a different song each week, or couple weeks! :)

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  84. Elodie Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:42 pm

    Allison,

    I think that you shouldn’t feel guilty.
    First because you have really skills,I mean, like I said you’re a wonderful actress.For example,yesterday I saw Progeny ,I acknowledge I cried at the end ,like a baby , you were awesome.
    You’re very involved in every thing you do,
    you make peoples happy and that it’s really great (how much times I was happy to watch you in smallville after a bad day,I can’t count it will be so long ) that’s why you deserve the money you earn.
    For my part I’m not rich but I’m not poor,I think I’m in the middle class and I’ve a dream like everybody and I know I need money if I want to fulfill it.I think sometimes it’s maybe good to be a bit selfish.But it’s true more later if I succeed my dream ,I’m sure I will give money to associations.
    You’re really a brilliant girl,this makes me nervous because I would like to say a lot of things,how much I admire you but I don’t manage to explain myself.It’s very weird I have the feeling to know you,like a friend but in fact I don’t really know you,I would like.

    I was in Paris and I saw Michael(he’s so funny) and your video with John it was so sweet,and I was really really really glad to watch you in the video!! (I would really like to see you at the next festival).
    ohhh … no Chloe/Clark kiss..I’m a bit disappointed

    (sorry for my english)

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  85. Craig Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:48 pm

    Hi Allison,
    great blog again. i don’t believe that money is the source of all evil. money is very important without money people are homeless and without food. even small donations will help them get jobs and be able to buy foods.

    off topic progeny was a great episode. i can’t wait for more episodes.

    it is too bad that there was no kiss and no mcmuffin either.
    keep blogging

    Craig

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  86. Craig Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:48 pm

    Hi Allison,
    great blog again. i don’t believe that money is the source of all evil. money is very important without money people are homeless and without food. even small donations will help them get jobs and be able to buy foods.

    off topic progeny was a great episode. i can’t wait for more episodes.

    it is too bad that there was no kiss and no mcmuffin either.
    keep blogging.

    Craig

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  87. Laura Li Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:50 pm

    Allison,
    I totally get what you said about what you really love doing not ever being hard work at all. I am a journalist/novelist and when I sit down to write an article, I always find enough words with hardly any effort. (Even if I have to write about something totally boring, like the stupid county forum) *yuck*

    And I also agree- money causes HUGE problems in the world today. People take and take and take and scrimp and save. And then when it’s their turn to help out a friend who needs some cash to make rent, or whatever, well, I’m not really sure I can afford it right now, maybe in a couple of weeks, oh gosh, I’m just not sure, I don’t really know, oh wow this is sudden of you to ask. And the number on the bank statement? $2,000!!!!!! Whatever happened to human kindness.

    Thank you for bringing up such an important topic

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  88. Laura Li Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 12:53 pm

    P.S. I have heard that someone important may die on Smallville. Really really hope it isn’t you! (Chloe really is my favorite character)

    P.P.S. And I’m not just saying that because you (Allison Mack) might read this later. It’s true.

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  89. Pen37 Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:21 pm

    The more I study about finances and money, the more I lean that Money itself isn’t good or bad. Money is a thing. It’s a tool. All money can do is magnify what’s in your heart. If you are a good person with a desire to do good things with money, then money is very good indeed. Charities don’t run on good intentions, and churches don’t get built without money.

    However, if you have bad intentions, lack of discipline, lack of restraint, money will bring that out too. It’s an interesting fact that most lottery winners are more poverty stricken within five years of winning the lottery than they were before they won.

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  90. ASHLEY Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:32 pm

    Hey Allison I don’t know what the last episode was called but it was the one with your mom. You were amazing in that. The way you punched those people. Man I loved it. My mom and I were cheering.My mom will be disappointed to hear that there will be no kiss because shes hoping for chloe and clark. I’m a sucker for Lana and Clark but chloe will always be my favorite character. M y favorite scenes are when she busts out lex. I dislike him very much. But anyways the quote. I don’t think money is the root of all evil I think it’s a way to temp us to do evil if you mistreat the money that we do have.
    Keep up the good work on the show.hasta luego

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  91. Georgie Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:47 pm

    Hi, I haven’t been here before and I just read all your entries in one go. Thank you so much for taking the time; it means a lot to us crazy fans. Before I get onto the pseudo-philosophical ranting, I’d like to say I just watched “Progeny” and I think it was my favourite episode of the year and don’t tell anyone but I cried in that scene with Chloe saying goodbye to her mother… I thought all the performances were excellent throughout that episode.

    People say that money can’t buy happiness, but really I think that in most places, limited money equals limited happiness. Apart from the obvious things like buying food, clothing and housing, I think people really do judge others on how much money they have. It’s like saying that beauty is only skin deep – we like to think so, but to some extent we all judge by appearances. Same with money. If you go out somewhere, obviously better off people are likely to garner more attention.

    This might seem a little off the point, but some form of prejudice always exists against poorer or indeed richer parties, and money in this context can become the root of at least some evil.

    Also, more money means better education, and I know if my parents hadn’t been so well off I would never be able to pay for university without working for a few years. Better education = better job = more money and so it continues.

    Btw, does your comment mean we’re not getting a Chloe/Clark kiss this season? But it’s a tradition! Chloe is and always has been my favourite character and I really hope she gets happiness in some form or another (preferably a tall, dark, flannel-loving one).
    Thanks for reading!

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  92. JPA Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 1:59 pm

    Coincidentally, I plugged into kiva.org last week and started “investing”. It rocks, not just for the feel-good factor, but folks actually get to see the outcomes of such small-but-fruitful investments. So glad you’re spreading the word about it!

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  93. Joy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:13 pm

    The first thing that popped in my mind was I need to get a job….then it was WOW..what a great interpetation on this subject..and THEN it digested that there is no kiss this year! Well dang.

    I think its incredible how someone can analyze their own life and still see all points of views that others don’t see or even consider at looking at. With the combination of blogs that you have entered, I am truly amazed by you.

    You. Inspire. Me

    Joy

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  94. David Marriott Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:15 pm

    I was delighted to see that you’ve included a section on Fir Trade on your website. Fair Trade is a perfect example of how money, well-spent, can do some good in the world. My wife and I routinely buy Fair Trade coffee from a local outlet, and even though it is more expensive that commerical coffee (as much as twice the price) we take some satisfactino in knowing that the money we pay is going to the growers and distributors, and not to some multinational food conglomerate.

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  95. Natalia Prata Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:34 pm

    Hi again Allison! :D

    It’s funny that you chose money to be the subject of your blog entry this week because today (before I actually read this) I was with some friends waiting in line for lunch and we had bills in our hands. One of them, Ana, started crumpling hers up into a ball and said that it felt really good! That it was as if money had no meaning at all! Just a piece of paper! It certainly is a very liberating thing to do, especially because afterwards it is still valuable. Hehehe :D

    Anyway, as I was crumpling up my own bill I realised that all the bad things that come from money are created by men, that even if that piece of paper was worth 5 euros for me, it would mean nothing for someone who had no way of exchanging it for something.

    What you wrote about people having to earn their money is so true! I have been through that, having money practically handed out to me, and I must say it is not something I was grateful for. (I know this sounds weird but it was given to me as a birthday gift, so it’s no big deal. :P ) I felt as if I shouldn’t have accepted it because it didn’t feel mine.

    Ok, I must be sounding very confusing now, I’m really tired. I better go to sleep because I have classes early in the morning tomorrow ( human anatomy – joints; hope I don’t fall asleep!).

    I just wanted to say that money is not the source of all problems in the world and that it must be earned to make sense for the people who spend it.

    About Smallville, I wish you had kissed Tom! But I’m sure the final episode of the season was great anyway. The worst part is the “to be continued” part, but I’m sure they kept that! I just don’t like episodes that don’t end, it’s like getting to the end of a book, you always want to read some more.

    I’m pretty sure I’m babbling by now, I really should go to sleep.

    Looking forward for next week’s entry! Keep writing to us, we love reading it!

    Hugs and kisses

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  96. Kaelestis Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 2:56 pm

    Aw, I missed commenting last week T_T

    Anyways, I agree. Money is not the root of evil. Money is an inanimate object. The thing is that money represents power in most cases. Those w/ money can do things and influence ppl in ways that those without cannot. They can do great things such as fund foundations, give to charity, travel and visit unfortunate persons, etc. They can also do very bad things…I won’t list them, b/c corruption is pretty prevailent (sp?) in our society we are all aware of what bad things ppl w/ power can do.

    So…I guess you can say that I think money = power, and that power does not make somebody evil…but it makes it much easier for ppl to give in to their temptations as consequences and barriers that surround those w/o power are sometimes lessened or even removed for those w/ power.

    As far as feeling bad that you make more money then a lot of ppl around the world and that you don’t feel that it is right b/c you enjoy it…I would say that you shouldn’t feel so bad. You should feel very happy in fact!!! Those who live without have a hard time helping others out…and sometimes have a hard time helping themselves out. But you have the opportunity to help others out and influence ppl way more then the average person. This is a great gift and, honestly, it seems that you are well putting ur gift to good use.

    ^_^ v Stay good!

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  97. Thamires Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 3:46 pm

    Hi Allison!!!
    É a primeira vez que venho aqui no seu blog,você está de parabéns, ele é muito massa!!!
    só queria dizer que sou uma grande admiradora do seu trabalho, e grande fã da série SMALLVILLE!!! Só sei um pouco de inglês,do tipo “I don’t speak english”, eu moro no BRASIL e aqui a série é um sussesso!!!!Eu estou torcendo para a Chloe ficar com o Clark!!!rsrsrsrs.
    Eu concordo com Gandhi, a forma com que o capital é usado pode ser boa ou ruim, não se esquecendo também de que a economia é a bola que move o mundo, ou seja, sem dinheiro o mundo não vai pra frente!

    *****Dinheiro não é tudo na vida, mas, sem ele é impossível viver!!!
    Estou tendo aulas de inglês e da próxima vez que vier comentar aqui vai ser in english!! bom, vai ser um inglês meio analfabeto, mas vai dar pra entender!!!
    your BIG fã, kisses in your S2. :)

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  98. Keri Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:05 pm

    aww, no kiss.
    i love how there are finally people that use there blogs for good instead of bragging about a new outfit or something.
    I don’t think that money is the root of all evil. Sometimes, people just suck. Firsthand experience. yay.
    Seriously, I think that people don’t know how to deal with power. Sometimes, money has a hand in it but not always. My dad thought he had power, and it went to his head. Holding money over our heads seems to be fun to him and gives him a sense of power.

    Nice blog, yet again.

    ~keri

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  99. William Bridge Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:05 pm

    Yes, this is a very true quote (who am I to say Gandhi is wrong, lol) Money makes people do strange things as well, such as get jobs they don’t like and other such things. Even at times human beings activate their “hording” reflex and try to gather as much amounts of money as they can, sometimes destroying lives in their pursuit. I recall a speech that was given in an awards ceremoney entitled, “Gods, Gold, and Glory.” It came down to the fact that human beings have destroyed each other for these three things because having them meant having the ultimate power, when in fact the most powerful tool you can obtain is simply knowledge. Knowledge is Power, money is an inanimate tool that helps you grab a bite to eat, get a place to live etc… The career path I want to choose after I graduate, Police Officer, is not going to make me any money, in fact it is going to be only somewhat comfortable for a single person to live on, but I have the knowledge that I am doing something that I enjoy, I have my friends and family backing me and I know that the job isn’t a bunch of $$$ to me, but a service to the community. I want to help people! I say, if you truly enjoy the work you do and you are not hurting anybody while you are doing it, than don’t feel sorry for yourself or how much money you make, enjoy life and help others along along the way!

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  100. Mandy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:25 pm

    It’s very interesting that you mentioned how you sometimes feel guilty about the money you make because you love what you do. This morning, before I had the chance to read your newest entry, I was helping some students with a map of the Panama Canal (gotta love History!) and it occurred to me how much I really enjoy my job. I even recall having the specific thought, “I get paid for this? How great is that?!”

    Since I became a certified teacher last June, I have made every attempt to not refer to it as “a job.” I’ve had jobs, and they were usually very tiring and I hardly ever felt any reward as a result of all my hard work. What I have now is a career. I still work hard, but I enjoy what I do and I get rewarded every day knowing that there’s a possibility that I’ve affected one of my students in some way. The money is a bonus.

    That’s how it is when you do something you love–your first thoughts are not about how much money you can make, but what you have to offer the world.

    I don’t have much to say about kiva.org because I hadn’t heard about it until you mentioned it. But it’s an interesting concept, and it sounds like it’s gaining some momentum.

    I’m looking forward to the last episodes of the season! Progeny was awesome and it was cool to see Chloe kick some butt!

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  101. Sarah Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:34 pm

    aww! no chlark kiss!!! oh well….life goes on…..

    Yeah, i believe that you deserve everything you make it sounds like you absolutely love what you do and you are so good at it too!! (rhyming not intended) I have always believed that you have to love what you’re doing and no matter how much you are paid, if you love doing it, then go right ahead!

    It is so true that people escape so much from their problems. Everybody always looks for ways to nget out of trouble, to get of taking responsibility for their actions and decisions. Money iself has never been the issue. it is the people. People mess things up. I mess things up you mess mess things up. Everybody in the world messes things up. The best thing we all can do is simply take responsibility for ourselves and help others to do the same. That organization sounds so amazing and i love the fact that it helps people without destroying their pride.

    Love yah as always!!!!

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  102. Sarah Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:44 pm

    wow!!! hi me again …….i didn´t notes how important is the money in every day of our lives!!…and i was reading some comments about the mexican can´t buy tortillas, and it´s kind true, well there are so many countries who are very very poor!!!….and all the promises that the president make and so far , we don´t se nothing………:|

    well,…….change the subjet………..i hope you enjoy your future vacation after along time of work so….stay cool, and i hope read more next week :D

    PS: i can´t wait to see the end of this season!!!!!
    so……adios!!!

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  103. carroeszczepanski Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:48 pm

    Hi Allison,

    This is My first time here, I welcome you to the blogging world, I am so happy that you have desided to join us.

    Me being a person who use to have very little, now having more than some others do, I try to help those in need.

    I get a happy feeling seeing other people smile, even when sometimes there is very little I can give or do for them.

    Hope to hear from you soon.

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  104. No-one Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 4:50 pm

    Maybe not. But we need it to live. I’d like to live in a world which the money is not what decides our destiny but, lamentably, I have to recognize that there’s no another thing (except love) which moves us into our lifes. But the money is something different as love, we search it for just to survive. Sometimes we despise the money, but it’s scary the day in which we don’t have it.
    If you are studyient, and you have to live, or just to be in a city which is not your hometown. Imagine what about if one day you have no money and you are absolutely only in a city that is not yours.
    I know I can study in a place which someone is helping me to pay. I wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for that money.
    Another fact is the attitude about the money that we can have. I mean, buying things that are really not necessary, or they are simply a caprice or a little passenger thing.
    I condemn this way of using the money.
    The money is not really the evil, we are the evil using it in a wrong way.
    Sometimes I ask myself why I do what I do. Why I wake up everymorning to go to the University. Why I still fighting. And such things. And the answer I find is that just because I want to give my children in the future the chance which I didn’t have in the past.
    The money is the devil, yeah, or your last hope. Good or Bad. That’s decided by your own self. You decide baby. PEACE

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  105. sheryl225 Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:11 pm

    Alison & Tabby,
    Thank you for another thought provoking blog entry! As always, you’ve given me things to mull over, to research and reminded me to dig in my class notes for the information I had on micro financing, CSR & natural capitalism. (I took an accounting class and one of the study units was natural capitalism) I’ve been so busy getting my 15 yr old daughter & I settled into a new apartment, and me into a new job that I haven’t had time to continue studying on my own! You’ve inspired me!

    Alison, I hope you have a wonderful, memorable hiatus & I’m looking forward to lots more Chloe in season 7!
    Sheryl

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  106. Frank C. Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:33 pm

    Allison, as an Economics mayor I can tell you that initiatives like the ones started by Muhammad Yunus have had a deep impact on improving the way some people impoverished live. More specifically, micro-loans (usually not more than $100) have been proven to eradicate or greatly diminish poverty in some demographics.

    Human will to thrive never ceases to amaze me. Most of the people receiving these loans make less than $1 a day, which means that they are below the poverty line set by the World Bank and the UN, but with a little help they are able to provide for their needs, run a business, and pay back their loans.

    Actually, the default rate (percentage of people who do not pay their loans back) could be even less than that of a premium-segment mortgage fund. The reason is simple yet profound: These people feel they have been given a real chance and value the confidence given to them; thus, paying back what they were given and doing everything in their power to succeed are a priority.

    We can do so much with so little, and the people given the micro-loans proved it.
    On a more personal note, Allison, you should not feel guilty about making good money. You deserve it! You do a wonderful job and, I am sure I speak for everyone, we love seeing you on TV.

    What is great is that you are aware of your surroundings and what is going on around the world. You have a social-conscience and that is something not many people have. Realize that you are in a powerful position to bring attention to these issues and the fact that you are using it speaks very highly of you, Allison.
    Best to you

    Frank C.

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  107. Sue Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:45 pm

    Its not about how much you have, its about what you choose to do with it…Using what you have to help mankind is a great gift to the world…using what you have to take over the world…BAD…just to simplify the quote…Gandhi, thou a great man was sometimes not the easiest to understand…I guess you could say that with alot of the greatest men around…sometimes simple is best that way the whole world can understand what you are talking about. Never feel guilty for what you have, when you work hard to earn it and you also use it and the power that comes with it to help the world around you…if we all stopped to think about it long enough we would all feel some kind of guilt for having the basics in our life when there are children out there with nothing at all. All you can do is be grateful for what God has blessed you with and help when and where you can.

    Blessed Be
    Sue

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  108. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 5:52 pm

    Off Topic. Big disappointment. Superman Celebration. Two years ago. John Schneider. One year ago. Michael Rosenbaum. This year … Helen Slater. Not the Supergirl I was hoping for. Well, I guess that saves me a 1200 mile round trip to stand six hours in the sun to meet another cast member of “Smallville.” I would have only made the trip for Allison or John Glover. Last year I listened to John read Steven King’s “Night Shift” on the way to Metropolis. He was phenominal!

    We now return you to our regularly scheduled topic. Had this been a real emergency, I would have already been out the door.

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  109. Teresa K. Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:38 pm

    Money…can’t live with it, can’t live without it. It gives us the potential for great good and it really is the root of all evil. Great topic this week, Allison!

    I’ve become determined to get a greater grip on my finances and start putting aside something for retirement (hey…it’s only 16 years away!), and freeing some of my income up to give to some charities that I want to support (stroke prevention & research are near and dear to my heart because my dad spent 12 years in a nursing home after having a massive stroke.). I’ve taken part in a Dave Ramsey finance seminar sponsored by work , and it’s really working for me.

    I really get a sense of fulfillment when I donate money at Church to help our sister parish in Ghana so that they can build a school that children can stay at and get a good Catholic education (I’m Catholic). My parish raised enough money to buy a reliable car for the pastor of our sister parish, and we currently have a nun who is attached to the parish staying with us in the States and she’ll be meeting with our local Congressman to discuss aid to Africa. It’s an awesome time.

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  110. Holden Caulfield Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 6:56 pm

    Hey Allison. Actually first off, does anyone call you Big Al/Little Al/Al/Ally/Son. Anyways, this is the first time I came to this sight. I was just looking up Chloe Sullivan(because you my favorite character) and what do you know; I find this site. It’s pretty cool. I mean I know you’ve got the looks, but who knew you were an intellectual. I enjoy reading your words; it’s very free. You’ve definitely got that whole “voice” thing going on. I revel in your quotes and ideas as well. Ghandi just happens to be one of my inspirations. I’m in high school right now, 10th grade actually. I was hoping you could give me your opinion of Invisible Children and the whole Day of Silence thing. Personally, I don’t see much in them. People at my school were making such a big deal about it when it was going on. The Invisible Children thing; they’re basically building one shelter for an entire continent. It’s not going to solve the real problem. Then there’s the Day of Silence thing. Keep silent, for what? To echo the silence gays,trans.,bis.,and victims of prejudice keep. I don’t see what that actually does. Shouldn’t we do the opposite and speak up about it. Teachers say the silence promotes awareness, but I think speech is better. Did Martin Luther King Jr. keep quiet about the mistreatment of his people? No. Did Ghandi keep quiet about civil rights in South Africa or when Britain took away the rights of the people of India? No. So the question is, why should we? If you don’t respond to this it’s fine; I know you’re busy and have “hard work” to do.

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  111. alpaguer Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:03 pm

    Hola, soy mexicano, me parece muy interesante tu comentario e invitación, creo oportuno hacer también el siguiente comentario dada la situación de los latinos en EEUU. Hace algunas semanas trataron el tema en la serie. La inmigración puede ser un recurso más que un obstáculo para el desarrollo. En el mundo actual, en el que el desequilibrio entre países ricos y países pobres se agrava y el desarrollo de las comunicaciones reduce rápidamente las distancias, crece la emigración de personas en busca de mejores condiciones de vida, procedentes de las zonas menos favorecidas de la tierra; su llegada a los países desarrollados, a menudo es percibida como una amenaza para los elevados niveles de bienestar, alcanzados gracias a decenios de crecimiento económico. Los inmigrantes, sin embargo, en la mayoría de los casos, responden a un requerimiento en la esfera del trabajo que de otra forma quedaría insatisfecho, en sectores y territorios en los que la mano de obra local es insuficiente o no está dispuesta a aportar su contribución laboral.
    Las instituciones de los países que reciben inmigrantes deben vigilar cuidadosamente para que no se difunda la tentación de explotar a los trabajadores extranjeros, privándoles de los derechos garantizados a los trabajadores nacionales, que deben ser asegurados a todos sin discriminaciones. La regulación de los flujos migratorios según criterios de equidad y de equilibrio es una de las condiciones indispensables para conseguir que la inserción se realice con las garantías que exige la dignidad de la persona humana. Los inmigrantes deben ser recibidos en cuanto personas y ayudados, junto con sus familias, a integrarse en la vida social. En este sentido, se ha de respetar y promover el derecho a la reunión de sus familias. Al mismo tiempo, en la medida de lo posible, han de favorecerse todas aquellas condiciones que permiten mayores posibilidades de trabajo en sus lugares de origen.

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  112. Ben Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:04 pm

    no i do not think that money is the root of all evil, but that saying always bugged me primarily because that line was never really said by anyone, the original line acctually comes from the bible and its “the love of money is the root of all evil.” i thnk that is an important distinction. money itself isnt evil in fact its nothing its just neutral, but the love of money, the desire to do anything to get it, now that is a human trait, and that is evil. most human atrocity can be traced back to the love of money, or power. and those two things go hand in hand. every dictator did what they did for power or money, or maybe a screwloose. but yea, sorry for rambling but your blog got me thinking.

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  113. Brittny Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:19 pm

    Hey Allison!

    I’m really enjoying your blog.

    I don’t think money is the root of all evil. Loving money can be. Money is and should be a tool, it is a very useful tool. I think it becomes evil when people value money to the neglect of family and community. When people become grasping and get caught up in the race to get more. It’s like there’s a black hole that will never be filled. Money in and of itself is not evil. It’s wonderful and necessary.

    I love the organizations you mention and I’ve heard of organizations like that before, just not connected to banking…

    I think it’s wonderful to invest in someone’s potential. You’re right Allison, that no handout can compare to the thrill and the joy of recieving a loan, starting up a business and seeing the fruits of your labor. Seeing that with your hard work you are able to feed your children etc. etc.

    And this way, people are recieving more than sustanance, they are empowered. They see that they are capable, have skills and talents, can make a contribution to their community. The money goes farther than just feeding the body, it feeds the soul as well…

    I think hard work feeds the soul.

    To whom much is given much is expected. And I think when we realize this, money becomes less of a burden. It’s a tool that can be used to enrich the life of others, and they in turn enrich the lives around them. Programs like the ones you’ve highlighted really show how wonderful a blessing capital can be… especially in the giving.

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  114. Andrea18 Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:29 pm

    Hi Allison!

    You poor thing…no Mcmuffin, and no kiss?!? At least a McMuffin…come on people! :) haha. On topic though, your words hit very true for me as well. I personally love what I do in life, and I feel very sad for those who do not enjoy their jobs. I think that’s the major problem for me, knowing there are so many out there unhappy in their situations. knowing that I not only enjoy what I do, and look forward to going to work every day, but I also get paid for it? I don’t think you should feel guilty at all for making the money you make. You all seem to work incredibly hard….and loving what you do is an extra perk. But I definitely know where you are coming from. I’ve struggled with the fact that people in the TV industry, movie Industry, and professional sports.. make the kind of money they do. Before I read your comment here today I had to wonder where is the justice in our society?? We live in a world where entertainment reins supreme, and cops, fire fighters, etc. make a measly pay for putting their lives on the line on a daily basis. But it’s honestly people like you that give me hope. Hope that those who have the financial means to make a difference do. People today seem to be so wrapped up in themselves and the material things this world has to offer we never stop to think of others. I obviously don’t know you, but from what I’ve read on your blog you seem to be a very level headed woman who thinks of other’s on a daily basis. So..going back to the main point! haha. I don’t think you should feel guilty for making money doing what you love. The fact that you took the time to write on this blog stressing money issues shows me you could never be the type of person to become so wrapped up in money you forget who you are. :)

    - So no, I don’t think money is the root of all evil. I personally think it’s the want for power and the tendency to never be happy with what we have that drives “evil.” Having money is fine, it’s like everything else in life, it’s what you do with it.

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  115. Magie Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 7:37 pm

    I have to say that this was a bit of a downgrade from last seasons last day! Hehe :P But how nice is the feeling of summer break? I am itching to get out of school and feel the freedom of summer!

    Love the topic! I have to agree that taking out anger and frustrations on money is pointless because ulitimately we are made at the descsions we make with our money. I for one am a completely anal person with my money, I write *everything* down the minute I do it and balance like a mad woman. I hate not being sure how much money I have, I fear I might overspend and that is my worst fear.

    I do think that money can be the root of evil, depends on how it is used. So many ways it can and can’t be, so many ways I can’t think of right now :P But I do believe that the money you earn just feels so much better when you know you have *really* worked for it. I love your banking idea and will definitley read more about it! Another reason I love your deep topics is because they are great topics to disscuss in my Economics class, get the teacher all excited and talking so we don’t take notes for most of the hour! THANK YOU! :P

    As for you Allison, you deserve every penny they give you and more! As an inspiring Journalist you really sell the career and just make me want to do it *that* much more. Terri Hatcher used to be my icon, but now you are because you make Journalism look so damn fun, and meaningful at the same time! Great job and I can’t wait for your next blog! Have a great summer break!

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  116. shazy Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:19 pm

    ya know what, i can really relate to you. i always feel really bad when my mom gives me money for Christmas presents, because then i fell like im not the one thats buying the presents for my person, my parents are. really, she doesnt always pay for me, i used to do paper routes, and i put money towards that. but ya, i always fell like i NEED to earn the money, cause then its really not mine. also thanks for the quote, its reather fantastic. have a good week.

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  117. RJChasez Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:30 pm

    Whaaa? No kiss, and no Egg McMuffins? Dude, I so would have demanded a reshoot! :p No kiss, though… gotta admit, that makes me a little sad. :( Ah, well. I have high hopes for another episode that’s yet to air. *crosses fingers like a big superstitious dork* :D

    Depending on how you spend it, money can be a root of evil, I think. If you spend it all on things you just want, and don’t bother spending money on things you need, then that’s wrong. Also, if you put having money over your health, or family, or whatever, that’s a big bad thing. Some people think that the key to being happy is all about money, and where it’s true that sometimes you have to use your money to buy things that can make you happy (entertainment, etc), it’s not all about that.

    I’ve never heard of micro-financing before, but there’s an enormous part of me that suddenly wants to check into it now. :)

    When it comes to you, and getting your paycheck as an actress, well, I’ve already told you I think you’re incredible at what you do, and you deserve all that you make and more. You were absolutely stunning in Progeny, by the way. That was one of your most perfect performances, in my book, and that made it one of my favorite episodes.

    Many hugs and much love until next time!

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  118. Janae Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:43 pm

    What?! No annual Chlark kiss – it’s an absolute outrage, a travesty I tell you… o.k., I’m on a level now Allison, but I guess you get the fact I’m a crazed Chlark fan, huh?
    I’ll share with you a philosophy I’m so grateful my wise mother handed to me… “Money isn’t the root of all evil, but people with money are”. I think that those with large amounts of money tend to go crazy with it, spending it on all sorts of garbage they’ve no need for. See, in today’s society, the mass media seems to desire mass consumption, which is all fine and well, but what do you do when you’ve sent yourself flat broke and you’ve still got the kids to feed?! It’s not enough to say you can practice self -restraint – to some, the ‘pull’ of consumption is no different to that of gambling, drug addiction etc. Power rushes to the head of the moneyed – think how much better off we’d be if people got of the butt and did something for the world. A few do, and more power to them, but it’s not enough – it never will be.

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  119. Brady Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 8:48 pm

    On behalf of my partner, the gorgeous Montana (a regular at the kryptonsite forums), I would like to announce the birth of our beautiful baby girl:
    CHOLE ALLISON ROSE
    Born at St. George Private Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
    22/4/07
    8.42pm
    Weighing: 3.2 kg
    Lenght: 54cm
    Mother and daughter are doing well.
    Oh, we’d also like to thank Allison for the inspiration – in years to come when little Chole asks about her namesake, we’ll hold our heads high when we refer her to our endless collection of Smallville collectibles!

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  120. legendarywolf Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 9:26 pm

    Money is not the root of all evil. It’s just a metahpor. A symbol. The root of all evil is human heart. Whetever it is greed, jealousy, envy, or what – it all came from human heart – not money.

    Fable Fox
    http://www.fablefox.com

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  121. Eduardo Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 9:39 pm

    Wow!!
    Interesting that you have such a contact with your fans!!
    And of course, loving the part Chloe’s playing in Smallville!
    Greetings from Santiago de Chile!

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  122. Michael-J Says:
    April 23rd, 2007 at 11:33 pm

    Howdy Allison,

    I just wanted to say I agree with your thoughts this week, Gandhi’s words are spot on. Money is just one of many tools necessary for society to function properly, in turn it can be used for good or evil like most other things in life.

    Also, enjoying your work is something to be proud of, not feel guilty for. Enjoying what you do is important and doesn’t detract from what one achieves in their career, it enhances it. If you love what you do, you are likely to excel at it, which ends up pleasing others too!

    Finally, I just want to say you are the main reason I, along with many others, watch Smallville. It’s has been fun watching the evolution of Chloe over the years and I love what you have done with the character. It’s also good to have her (or more specifically, you) featuring more prominently in recent episodes. I really look forward to seeing where you take Chloe in coming weeks, along with where your career might take you in coming years. :)

    Best of Luck,
    Michael

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  123. Jen Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 12:49 am

    First, I’d like to comment that Chloe continues to be my favorite character on Smallville, and I’m glad that she’s featured more this season, even if that makes you have to work harder! She ties sometimes with Lex, but seems to be winning right now. Regardless, I always enjoy your performance, and for the record, I think that in order to stay sane, you need to see a modicum of importance and enjoyment from what you do.

    I’m not so sure that capital itself is a problem, as you said, but capitalISM as a system that feeds off of everything and everyone around it. I’d agree that people often mistake the artifact for the system and don’t really take the real problem into account! That money equals both material privilege (and I benefit from it now, finally living in a house with HEATING and insulation, thank whoever) but also POWER over others. The selfishness of looking the other way and the willful oppression of those in need for the furthering of your needs or keeping the system in place.

    Yeah, kinda evil. But it is often an ignored, unexamined evil that we rarely see in a critical way. One think that I’ve noticed while teaching is that there are so many students who are completely blind to inequality in our world that they will argue with me that racism still exists. No way, dude. That was in the 60s when everyone was angry!

    There are implications with charity though, that I think also go overlooked. Namely, our American “Protestant Pull Yourself Up by Your Bootstraps Work Ethic” and the idea of the “deserving poor,” that it isn’t simply enough to be starving to death, you need to have come by your poverty by “legitimate” means, or people shouldn’t waste their money on you. And the idea of imposing the values of the dominant culture of American society on other countries who aren’t poor because they somehow critically failed at life, but because of the actions of more powerful countries during colonization or maybe worldwide organizations that have destroyed their economy. AND the problem that some Americans will sent a lot of money to other countries/adopt their children without considering the implications of white privilege that they have, the existing economic structures specific to the country, or even taking a moment, as others have said, to look in America’s own backyard to help the people there.

    Which is to say, lots of issues involved. Everything is complicated once you start contextualizing with history. Thank you for posting these links. I don’t know squat about finances myself.

    I’m going to suggest a book for you (because I’m a book nerd)… I know there are others, but I can’t think of them off the top of my head and this one was able to hold my attention between breaks working retail (hard enough to do when you’re angry at customers). It’s Autobiography of a Blue-Eyed Devil by Inga Musico (author of the infamous C word “A Declaration of Independence”). She’s immensely entertaining and informative. Also… I think maybe Confessions of an Economic Hitman (although the author is SO arrogant and unaware of it, he’s a little hard to read), for starters, anyway. I’m sure there are others (and maybe better ones) but Inga is always enjoyable.

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  124. Hazera Forth Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 12:58 am

    Congratulations Brady and Montana! (A couple of my friends have also just had babies – man, they are everywhere at the moment).

    Anyway, thanks to Allison for another thought-provoking blog. I once had a theory about money and war and the roots of evil and it goes like this:

    Industrialisation and mass production (and consumption) are major conitrbutors to world hunger, war and political strife in many countries.

    Here’s why.

    My first thought is mass production requires logistics and manpower without which food and supplies can’t be produced or moved (exported) from place to place. Yes, this creates jobs and supports a stable economy but I think it ultimately unbalances natural resources such as oil, gas, water etc. Also, many companies keep costs down by opting for third world labour (which also disenfranchises those particular economies that are already poorly governed).

    Now, when one country starts to deplete it’s resources, it goes somewhere else to get more. This causes conflicts, misunderstandings and so on.

    Now what if we lived sustainably? What if each individual family or community group produced its own food – thus loosing the need for large-scale farming and having to move tonnes of food from one country to another or state to state?

    And what if we grew our own fuel?

    It strikes me that small is beautiful and if countries scaled back a little – maybe a sort of un-industrialisation, and we just consumed less and were offered less and sold to less in terms of all those things we don’t really need, maybe every person on this earth would get their fair share.

    Okay, I know that all sounds TOO simple but it reminds me of the moral of “manna from heaven” that we should take each day as it comes and save or produce enough for a day rather than in bulk. There’d be less waste and it wouldn’t need to be produced on an immense scale.

    I’m sure there are a lot of industries out there that won’t like to hear all this but maybe making money isn’t everything?

    Anyway, those are my thoughts – and I’m not sure I’ve made a viable point or have even got to my point yet but my general thesis is that we need to be a more holistic society globally by working as smaller units. I think it would have immense benefits for economies, individuals and the environment.

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  125. Canuck Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 1:58 am

    HI ALLISON!!

    How are ya??
    THis is Teresa.

    Teresa: HI ALLISON! I CAN’T BELIEVE I’M ACTUALLY HAVING CONVO. WITH YA!!! lol I’m SOOO HAPPY!!! :D :D :D

    THIS IS SOO AWESOME!!!

    Remember that quote you posted on 1 Apirl, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”? Well, I actually used that quote as one of my English speeches! Looks like you can read my mind or something! :D You know, to encourage my classmates to make a difference…. :D The “speech-taking” happened like a few weeks ago and I guess I sort of got an ok mark. 13/15? Oh, can you believe this? I’m actually @ high school… Anyhow, that quote’s so powerful. I mean, it really inspired me to see how important things were in the first place. Like you know, our friends, families, even the people we meet everyday encourage us to live as happily as we could ever achieve.

    Yeah, perhaps money is indeed the root of all evil.. I mean…today and ever since I was a little kid…I kept on asking people as to why people care sooo much about money. I seriously don’t know why. I mean, look at Jesus for example, He didn’t worry about when He’s gonna get His next meal or where He’s gonna live…. I mean even today… I talked to my ffriends about it at school…and they’re responses were like “cos’ we need money to survive” …”co’s it’s a materalistic world..maybe we go for other things in a century’s time”… but yes…I guess don’t know WHY PPL LIKE MONEY… anyway…but yes.

    Today at lunch, our Christian friends gathered around and talked about the shootings in America and some sucide in Melbourne…which leads to ur last blog entry here about violence and stuff like that. And Emily who was sitting next to me said “whenever you think of a something bad, it’s a sin..and murdering someone is also a sin”.

    It can be hard sometimes.

    I have a quote for you: Reflect yourself in water rather than a mirror. I made this quote when I was 15. Now I’m 17. Even though, it is such an old quote, it is still powerful and stuff, like the words just open up …bringing you into this perfect “utopian” world. I have been asking my friends about what this quote meant to them and surprisingly, they all reflected the way how people could change and everything… Change is like a journey in which you develop over time.

    To me, you are able to “change” yourself from the inside and reaching out to others by doing something good for them and pay nothing in return. It is just like the movie, “Pay it forward”. If you something good for other people, don’t let them pay you back, but instead let them pay it forward.

    Just like Lionel on Smallville. I guess he started off as the “bad guy” in season one, but as he started to realise about the truth and stuff, he started to sort of think about the stuff that he had done and to reflect on himself about it. It is all about change. Just like Gandi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”.

    What about you? What do you think means? Something to think about…

    P.S. Oh and um, sorry about the spelling as you may not know, I’m currently living in Sydney, Australia, but I was born in Vancouver! So yeh! Say a BIG HI to your casts + crews for me!!!

    P.P.S Smallville’s awesome! I love it sooo much!!! I’ve been watching seasons 1,2,3 and 4 for the past weeks and I loved it!!!!! Once, I watched 13 hours of Smallville nonostop, and I sort of got told off…cos I was supposed to be studying since it’s like my last year of high school…but…meh! :D Keep it up Alison!!! :D :D:D:D Oh and say HI to your best friend, Kristin for me!!!

    BEST REGARDS FROM SYDNEY AUSTRALIA!!!!!!!!

    KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK ALLISON!!! WE LOVE U!!!

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  126. sam_smallvilleaddict Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 3:00 am

    I can say that all of the quotes that you’ve posted are good…i told my friends about the quotes that you are posting…they said that those quotes are great..! by the way..i’m the one named samantha who posted a comment in the past quote that you’ve posted… and you know Ms. Allison…i really love Smallville..it’s like i’ve been so addicted to it! i kept saying…”oh look! it’s Chloe and Clark!..they really..do..look good together..!” ..actually it’s 7:23 pm here in the Philippines and Smallville’s 8:30 pm… hey,i uh…i gotta Ms. Allison..hope to post my comment again..haha.. take care! you’re the best Chloe! i uh i mean Allison!

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  127. romreal Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 3:21 am

    Hi Allison,

    Sorry to hear that you’re feeling kiss-deprived. Is there anything I can do to help. ;)

    Anyway, about the whole money thing. I definitely think that it is the wrong use of money that is wrong. Capitalism can be exploitative, but socialism is definitely not the way to because I think private ownership is necessary to human dignity. But over the past few years, I’ve become acquainted with an idea called distributism. There are a couple of websites devoted to it, but the basic idea is calling for “the widespread distribution of private property.” Capitalism concentrates too much wealth into too few hands. Socialism concentrates all wealth into the hands of the state. Distributism is therefore quite different from both in that, if implemented, it would seek a de-centralization of wealth by promoting small business over big business and small government over big government. I think this micro-financing idea is a wonderful implementation of distributist principles, and we need to see more such efforts.

    By the way, I loved both Freak and Progeny. You were awesome!

    Take care.

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  128. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 4:22 am

    Congratulations Brady! Why didn’t you name her Chloe? What name had you picked out if the child had been a boy? Alexander Michael or Clark Thomas?

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  129. Milka from Brazil Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 4:26 am

    Hello dear Allison,
    That’s a coincidence. I’m not sure if you could read my last comment when I wrote about poverty, specially in my country. I feel happy when I see people from rich countries who cares about this kind of problems. It makes me surprise. You’re so sweet!

    And NO, I don’t think money is the root of all evil!
    We use to relinquesh responsasbility and blame abstract things like social inaquelity and we forget that we are responsable for all that happening around us. So, we must to look around a little bit more and see what people need and try to help them, even though we don’t have money to give but help with our willigness. listening their problems, fears,wishes…

    I hope you can understand what I’m trying to say, ’cause my english isn’t good.

    Ps: I want a Tom kiss too! *laughs* you’re so lucky!

    Beijos (kisses in portuguese)

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  130. Egemen Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 5:20 am

    Hi Allison :)

    This is my first message and just wanted to say hello from Turkey as a fan of you. I loved the song you’ve chosen for the site, that’s also my taste (jazz forever :p)

    Well, I’m not so good at economics, however I can say that I agree with the quote you’ve written about. In my opinion; The main guilt is hidden in the souls of humans who apetite for “more”. There is noone better than we humans at blaming something else for what he is responsible for… Money can’t think, can’t deceive us to do something bad. We only deceive ourselves…

    My symphaty as a fan got much more bigger when I run into a sincere site while I was expecting nothing more than photos or biography. I can sincerely say that “keep on writing”. This world needs thinking, and sharing people like you.

    Have a nice day ^^

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  131. chlea Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 6:02 am

    No wonder why you have the sweetest smile among the Smallville casts because you love what you do. And there’s nothing to be guilty of if you take it as a fun and not hard work.

    If you consider portraying as “Chloe” in smallville is FUN, i have to consider that sharing your thoughts and ideas through your blog is “HARD WORK” because this is the real you… And you don’t get so much money as compared on what you receive from acting.

    I was so inspired that behind that sweet smile… hey! this girl is bright… with a big heart…

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  132. Sally Holland Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 6:57 am

    Allison,

    Another great topic. First of all I am a little disapointed there was no kissing this finally for you and Tom. I hope there is still an annual kiss. So sad if there’s not but oh well.

    I used to thinkl that money was the rule of all evil. But I come to discover that it is not the money but the meanings people put with money and what people do with the money and what they do to get it. I think it’s great that you are getting paid for what you love to do. Try not to feel too guilty about it sense it’s quite obviouse to me you are using your money and status to help people. And that is all the Lord asks of us. To do our best and help people.

    That bank organization looks really great. I agree with you about helping the people be able to work for what they get. Hand outs are great for a one time thing but it does cause guilt for the person that’s recieving it and it keeps them thinking they belong in the low status place and it’s hard for them to move up when things are given to them all of the time.

    So good job Alliosn for you progressive thoughts.

    Oh and Progeny was fantastic you did an excellent job!

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  133. Robert Kagiri Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 7:25 am

    Hi Allison,
    I agree its what one does with money that causes all the bad things. I was born in Africa and i have seen what the bad intentions with money can do.
    You shouldn’t feel guilty getting all that money, you are talented and with good intentions and you work hard thats all that matters.
    And by the way nice choice of music it really goes with the blog.
    Am a great fan and thanks for caring about the third world countries like mine and i wish you massive success.
    And hey i hope you kiss Tom

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  134. Kasey Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 7:31 am

    The Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil. What I love about this verse is that MONEY isn’t evil, but the LOVE of it is.
    Having a lot of money isn’t a sin or a bad thing, necessarily. When you love it, though, you are hesitant to do with it what needs to be done. If you love money, you won’t give it to the destitute or the needy.
    I struggle with money and giving. Right now I sponsor a child through Compassion International. I am a full time student with a full time job, but this year is the first year that I am literally on my own: rent, car payment, utilities, everything. I’ve been trying to find ways to cut back on spending and was very close to giving up on sponsoring, but I had to realize that this child needs me so much more than I need the extra $40 per month. Just one more step away from the love of money.

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  135. GIR Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 8:03 am

    Allison, great topic!
    It’s always nice to hear someone talk about a subject they are obviously passionate about.

    I was introduced to the concept of micro finance a couple of years ago and have been inspired while following and supporting it’s growth. It is quite astonishing to see the difference a small injection of capital can make in creating a sustainable difference. It’s a tangible example of how any of us can make a profound difference through a small gesture.

    What I love about this type of assistance is that unlike many aid programmes, once money is given to a community and spent, it isn’t the end. Through the loan system, every dollar that is paid back goes on to help another person, another community, over and over again. You could call it a sustainable form of aid.

    Micro finance does have it’s limitations however, and can have negative consequences when used in certain situations. We can’t rest on our laurels as there is a lot of work still to be done and equally revolutionary ideas and programmes will be needed before we see an end to poverty and inequality. That said, it is a remarkably brilliant solution to some of the worlds poverty problems and one that with any luck will continue to again exposure and support in the future. Thank you for doing just that!

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  136. William Kaleva Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 8:41 am

    Hi Allison,

    I think the correct quote from 1 Timothy is “the love of money is the root of evil,” not money itself.

    Sometimes people with no money/goods (or very little money/goods) can be more materialistic than people with a lot of money/goods. They are obsessed with obtaining them, while those with a lot of money sometimes aren’t that materialistic, since it comes so easily.

    You are right about the sense of accomplishment in doing something for oneself rather than just getting a handout. And micro-finance is not the only wave of change in the way we deal with these things.

    What of a future (far or near) where robots are relatively intelligent (artificial intelligence) and then do humans work for them? Do some humans own the robots and all the other humans are laid off? Or do the robots think that the humans are just drones and think they should replace the humans. (Here is where Asimov’s rules of robotics comes in, one of the rules being that robots cannot harm humans.) Or do humans join the robots and gradually become cyborgs (part biological, part robotic)? Lots of science-fictional possibilities.

    But what is the goal of humankind if drudgery as such is completely replaced? What if nanobots (microscopic robots) clean the environment so everything is eco-friendly, perhaps with larger robots sending excess heat energy to outer space to avoid global warming, etc. etc. And man is then free to do what? Perhaps to be creative. Part of being creative is perhaps creating new ways to be creative.

    This is only sketchy, but in such a world, a world perhaps beyond human need (in a physical sense) our economic -isms become a bit superfluous or not applicable. All the robotic labor could be surplus labor, so humans need not work at all to produce the necessities of life. Is this post-capitalist then? But is it really socialist? And how is distribution of goods established, by what criteria?

    Just some thoughts.

    William Kaleva

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  137. Patrick Lowry Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 9:09 am

    Hi Allison,

    For one of my hero’s:

    “And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”

    he also said…. :)

    “In my country we go to prison first and then become President.”
    - Nelson Mandela.

    Thanks for the quotes.
    P

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  138. Maria Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 10:19 am

    Dear Allison:

    The idea of this website and voicing your opinions getting those of us who read to write responses is a wonderful, thoughtful idea. Your blog on money is interesting on many levels.

    I am “self-employed” as a professional interior designer, as a woman, a mentor, one who teaches, works with students and interns and knows how hard sometimes “taking” money can be. My personal view is that it is a “woman” thing. Men don’t seem to have the same issues with receiving money as women do. Women have a very hard time saying what they’re worth or determining what fees to charge for services provided. I’ve gone through several evolutions, but after all the hard work, time, effort, money spent on education and national testing, I no longer (well….not as much) feel badly about setting a price for services without the nagging feeling I should “explain” why this is the cost.

    Please keep writing as your fan base needs a positive role model. You are one of my personal favorites to watch on Smallville. I love watching you on screen.

    Thank you again.

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  139. marina Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 10:30 am

    Funny you should talk about this. A few years ago I got into prosperity work and discovered a very interesting thing about myself – I believed deep down that having money would kill my soul. Also found out this belief is very common among artists. I started noticing our language – it was all built around “lack”, something the prosperity folks would tell you is completely destructive.

    The key thing we all forget is that money is a tool and that it is an infinate resourse. By that, I mean that sense that for us to have money we are taking it from someone else. But if you look at economic theory, money is something that is created by common will. So having money is not an immoral thing.

    I’ve gone a little off topic here so I’ll bring this discussion around. We carry so much baggage around the concept of money which is what I believe Ghandi was trying to address, this notion that being poor is somehow superior. But you’re quite right in saying it’s how we use the money that is the issue. In prosperity circles, an important component is the use of tithing. It says to the universal forces that you can give away money away because you trust the universe to support you, and in this way you support the work of the universe by keeping its abundance flowing.

    And to tie into your comments from last week, it comes back to the power of words, especially the way we use them with ourselves. So much of the “evil” that money does comes out of people’s fears of losing it, or of trying to escape from themselves through using it. If we looked at money as a tool of love, both for ourselves and others, it becomes a force for good.

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  140. Luciano Torres Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 11:31 am

    Ok, Allison,

    These programs that you said seem to be very interesting. I think some people earn lots and lots of money without not so musch efforts and others are sufering to get just a little to survive.

    Have a nice week.

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  141. Steve Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 11:34 am

    Hey Allison, I just gotta say i finally started watching Smallville a month or two ago (very bad of me) and i love it so much! I have easily breezed through the first 4 seasons and i’m killing myself to see the 5th! Although i know you probably aren’t reading this, and your co-workers or other people are, im 14 years old and I am thinking of pursuing an acting career when i’m older! I watched the bloopers for Smallville seasons 1 and 2 and it makes me want to act more and more. I’m acctually quite befuddled on how i’m going to achieve this goal, but i was hoping maybe, just maybe if you actually do read this, that you can email me at the address i supplied :) thx!

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  142. Raya Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 11:40 am

    I don’t think that money is evil but it can led people to do evil things to obtain it-like lying, stealing, cheating, killing etc…

    Hey we need it to live, thats just a part of life. I think alot of people believe that success is measured by your wealth, what nice car you drive, the designer duds etc…and you find some people get themselves in trouble because “money” is the most important thing to them and they don’t care who is hurt in the process. E.g. Conrad Black, Enron.

    To me Success is to be happy and love what you are doing or have evolved into as a person…..

    Money is just paper you can’t take it with you (I think the Egyptians tried that), so don’t let it consume you…

    Raya, T.O

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  143. Stephanie Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 12:16 pm

    Heyy Allison,
    Another great blog this week!

    First off I just want to say, that I watched Progeny last week and found you absolutly amazing. The way you said ‘I love you to mom’ with your beautifull eyes filled with tears, made me cry.
    I love people who show there emotions with there eyes, and don’t really have to say much to show you how they feel. You are deffenitly someone who has that, and I love it.!!

    Owke this weeks quote. I think Money is power, and what you do with that power can be evil. I dont think money itself is the root of all evil. Money gives you the oppertunity to choose evil, but on the other hand money also gives you the oppertunity to do amazing things for others. Its a difficult subject.

    I cant wait to read your next blog, keep up the amazing writing!
    you’r an inspiration!

    much love,
    Stephanie van Iersel
    The Netherlands

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  144. jozzymedic86 Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 1:07 pm

    Alright you goof,
    You really need to stop worrying about making money, no matter how much it is while doing a job you love, especially since your job is innocent and brings happiness to hundreds of people.

    1) Very few people have the balls to go for the job that they love and instead go to the job that gives them the money and/or that they will never worry about the market. I was one of those people, who almost went into a field that I only slightly enjoyed, but would have been finacially secure. But instead, I looked at my mom and dad, both do jobs that they really don’t enjoy, and didn’t go for they’re dream job. And I decided to go into my dream field when I get back from Iraq. Wish me luck, it prolly won’t make me that secure money wise, but I won’t be poor and I’ll be doing a job that won’t believe I’ll be getting paid for.

    2) Capitalism is not bad, for in encourages those to pursue their dreams. The fact that certain people’s dream is only greed and not sucess or happiness is just another fault of human nature. Not everyone wants to be rich, and not every rich person is corrupt or selfish. There’s a very wealthy car salesman in my area that gives away so much money to causes is amazing, and yet he is still wealthy and sucessful.

    3) Socialism was formed under the premises of people under a oppresive and economically poor regime. We are not under that example, thankfully. Socialism was also inherritently abusive, for it gave the Government too much power and the people too little. What makes our country and many others like it, so great is our freedom, including to be as sucessful as we aspire to. Forgive me, I’m a soldier and I fight for the people and every freedom we have, and I support the freedom of others, thats why I’m not against this war I’m in either, but I’m getting off topic.

    But anyway, I think that there is very little flaw in our system, just flaws in the people who use it, and as long you’re not abusing our hard won freedoms and belittling those less fortunate than youself. AAaaannnnd you, my dear Allison, should never be ashamed or resentful of the money you make, cuz it’s honest and good.

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  145. soufelizassim Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 2:24 pm

    Hello Alisson, his site is very pretty, I expect that you have liked the my one post past! You are pretty and fabulous in smallville 6° I worship your work!

    Excuse, do not I know a lot write English..kisses!

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  146. soufelizassim Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 2:35 pm

    Hello Allison his site is great, I worshipped the picture eh is very well!
    I always write enough more now I am without time, I am studying very! More it could not leave of come here see as is his site! kisses!!!

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  147. Carlos Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 2:51 pm

    Bounjour Allison! :D

    First of all i want to say that i love the episode Progeny!
    What an amazing performance!!

    About Phantom NO KISS!!! :O WHY?!
    I LOVE CHLARK!
    AND CHLARK´S KISS IN VESSEL IT WAS THE BEST THING OF THAT EPISODE!
    I´m looking forward to see your power!

    About the quote. “microfinancing” what a simple and a at the same time time amazing program. And what a great sample of solidarity.I will dig into it when i have the time. (to much study here in Argentina :D )

    Once again i love your words
    but once and again i can´t really answer to you appropriately because i do not write english very well :P

    Devoted to you!
    Au revoir
    Carlos

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  148. James_Brantley Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 3:26 pm

    Allison,

    I agree! “…I think it is so funny that we choose to blame our problems on an inanimate object instead of looking at it and recognizing that it isn’t the money that creates the issue…”- Allison Mack.

    A reliable source informed me that Bill Gates was worth so much money that he would be able to give everyone on the planet one billion dollars and still have 300 billion plus left. Apologies for not being able to site source. Tell me, what kind of righteous/spiritual resolve do the rich and “powerful” have? Disagree with me to the ends of the earth if one needs to, but I don’t believe those that vicariously delegate the responsiblity of human compassion to others are entirely ‘righteous’.

    “Those who not only practice as such but are approving of those who do…” I believe those that are condoners are contributors.

    Feel free to visit me at http://www.myspace.com/1by3 . God bless for this week and til’ next time!

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  149. Melissa Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 3:48 pm

    Allison you rock!

    Ok no kiss on your final day on set.. so wrong…

    I agree with what your saying and understand you completely. I am a business major in my last year of school, even though finance is not my major I have taken several classes focused on this issue, and I can say your thoughts on certain things are very inline with todays business mind.

    I know some have and issue with the phrasing Handout you used, but if people understand how business works then they know that thats how it is. Goverments in developed country give hanouts to developing countries so they can become industrialized, its just a fact on how it is, thats business.

    I enjoy reading what you have to say, you have a wonderful spirit and and great heart to do this for your fans! Best of luck! Looking forward to your next piece!

    Hugs and Kisses

    Melissa

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  150. Nicole Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 5:51 pm

    Hi Allison! Once again you’ve written such a thought-provoking entry. I think it’s in human nature to blame our problems on money and other things. We don’t want to admit that the real issue lies within ourselves. Also, I find it interesting that in the past you’ve felt guilty for making money doing something you love. I’m glad you’ve come to see the hard work you put into your job. I think that people that are doing jobs they love are inspired to work harder not just by the money but also by the fulfillment they get when they are doing that job. Most people aren’t that lucky and have to be in it solely for the money.

    The idea of “microfinancing” you brought up seems the reinforce the importance of self sufficiency. People want to be able to do things themselves which is why asking for help can be so difficult. I think the “handouts” that are sometimes given to people in poverty only exacerbate the problems that they have because they don’t learn anything from it. Instead the problems are solved for them but only temporarily. When the “handout” runs out, the problems return and the people have no idea how to solve them so they enter into this cycle of dependency on the handouts. The only way to truly help people is to help them help themselves. Don’t just give them the money and walk away. Teach them the tools necessary to allow them to work for it for themselves. Then and only then will we make progress in eliminating poverty.

    Thanks so much for writing. Your blog really gives people something to think about.

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  151. Daniel Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 7:18 pm

    Hey Allison :)
    Another week, another insightful blog, about your thoughts and beliefs! Thanks for sharing some info, too!
    Your banner quote is perfect; its not that money is evil, per se, but what one DOES with that money, the intention, that’s when evil can arise. Don’t feel bad about the money that you were paid for doing something you love; if you are using that money to help others, to educate people and share your first-hand experiences, then you have no reason to feel guilty.
    Thank you for being honest and not putting up a facade in your blog or pushing non-issues.
    ~Daniel

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  152. Jamie Everhart Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 7:50 pm

    One has only to look at life in Smallville to see the uses of money….Lex for evil, and Ollie for good. Either way, the money is the same color of green(or peach, or whatever color the new $10 bill is…but you’re Canadian, no?…or is that Kristen?…anyway, you’re in Canada often, so I guess you’re used to colorful money:)

    Our salaries rarely reflect how much we “deserve”. Teachers should all be millionaires, and pro athletes should make minimum wage in my opinion…but our society doesn’t work like that. I like to think life in the future will be like it is on “Star Trek”….a world without money, where everyone is left to pursue what their heart desires(to where no one has gone before!). Until then, I’m glad we at least have people thinking “outside the box”, and coming up with forward thinking ideas like “microfinancing”. And thank you so much for sharing your thoughts about it in your blog. This is my first time visiting this site….so I’d like to leave the obligatory “I think your awesome” comments. I sometimes think such words sound trite if repeated too often…but I hope you never fall prey to the evils of cynicism….you are truly a very talented actress, and I have very much enjoyed watching you work since I found “Smallville” a little over a year ago. Keep it up…and keep up the cool blogs!

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  153. AndyBear1980 Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 7:55 pm

    Hey Allison,

    First I’d just like to briefly comment on just how great I think these blogs are. You’ve picked fabulous topics so far, and have left me really thinking about my responses.

    It’s funny that you brought up the world of finances this week, since it’s been a topic that’s been on the back of my mind for a while now. I think I have some of the same insecurities and self-doubts you do (and judging from your past blogs, it doesn’t extend to just this topic. haha Maybe that explains why I love the blogs so much. I relate to them a lot.)

    I’ve learned in my short 26 years of life that it is simply human nature to blame our problems on our financial standings. And while I’m guilty of it too at times, I think I’ve learned in the past few years that money is the root of all evil only if we let it be so. I’ve learned the hard way that money doesn’t buy you happiness. It doesn’t heal any kind of scars – be it physical or emotional – one may have. It doesn’t fullfill whatever void there is in your life. Hell, it doesn’t get you whatever it is you are lacking in life.

    For instance, in my situation, I could be working day in and day out as a translator right now, probably making triple what I currently make. Would I be financially secure? Yep. Would I be happy? I don’t think so. I love translating. I’m fascinated by languages. I’m proud of my degree and my schooling. But I couldn’t stay inside my apartment at my computer 24/7 and not see the world outside. So instead I opted for 3 part-time jobs and freelancing on my free time…and I make a LOT less money. haha But I find I’m much happier this way. And when I see people complaining about their jobs left and right, or hating everything they do or everyone they work with…I’m almost glad I’m not them. I’m happy I’m making just enough to live a nice life.

    I would feel much guiltier cashing in money for something I hate doing (while fully knowing someone else out there may love to be in my position but hasn’t gotten the chance) than earning the money I do earn by doing something that I actually enjoy – something I actually put my heart into and love. :) It’s taken me a long time to come to that realization, but I have. It used to be so easy to feel as though it was odd to be compensated for actually having fun at what I do. Until I tried doing something where fun was out of the equation.

    So in that sense, you Allison have absolutely nothing to feel guilty about. haha I’m glad that you’re coming around to noticing the hard work you put into what you do and how loving what you do doesn’t equal not earning what you get in return.

    P.S. About the idea of “microfinancing” that you brought up. Very very interesting read. I thank you for those links. I don’t know a lot about it, but from what I could gather, I’d be really interested in reading more about it. Seems like a really great thing.

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  154. Paladin Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 7:56 pm

    Hello Allison!

    I hope they write more kisses into your contract!

    This is my first time seeing your blog and I enjoyed your post. I took a look at Kiva and it is so beautiful! I never knew anything like that existed. It seems like such a great way to bless people who are struggling. It got me thinking as well. One of the reasons I like Smallville so much is that I’ve always dreamed of being a superhero. I felt that I could right so many wrongs if I just had the power necessary. However, after reading your post and taking a look at Kiva, I had to ask myself a question. Is it the ability to help people that I desired or simply the power and glory?

    We don’t need superstrength, superspeed, or heat vision to help make people’s lives better. The only super power we need is love, committment, and a willingness to give (I know that sounds corny and cliche but it’s true). Kiva seems like a wonderful avenue through which to exercise these powers! Thank you for introducing me to it!

    Don’t feel guilty for being pretty young starlet. Love your work. Be blessed!

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  155. Jodi Jean Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 8:44 pm

    Allison,

    You are beyond your years!! You are a breath of fresh air in the world of entertainment.

    I am quite pleased that you have taken the time to discuss these issues. My family is involved with an organization in Central America that takes care of 30+ children. I will share what I have learned on this site with my hubby. My then 11-year-old daughter visited Central America and came back a changed person, not just a phase. She was absolutely moved by the places and people she met. What stood out to her was how happy and content the kids were in this impoverished nation she visited. She said they were so much happier than the kids she sees day after day here at home, kids who “have everything.”

    I have to add that Smallville is our favorite show – and the character of Chloe is outstanding – you are a wonderful actress. The show has wonderful writers, the sets are vibrant and stunning, the actors dynamic, and for once Lex is not played “over-the-top.” Blessings to you always.

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  156. Tamara Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 9:06 pm

    Oh Allison, this was a great post. I have just found your web site as I am an occasional Smallville viewer (I work in the industry in Vancouver) and somewhere someone linked to you.

    Just browsing through briefly I was first struck by how thoughtful you are about such important issues – I hope this site you are taking the time on, dispels myths about vapid actresses. You’re anything but.

    Now, about money. Such a stressor!! I have always said that there are two things that can stress people out the most – finances and health. I’ve had Rheumatoid Arthritis since I was six years old so I have always had the health stress, and frankly always seem to be struggling with money too.

    It’s such an important perspective or paradigm shift to think about what money struggles mean to me, though, and what they mean to people who can’t even get water to drink. It might be tight for us after making a mortgage payment on the condo my husband and I own, or might not be able to buy a lovely dress right now but can put it on layaway and make payments.

    Once I start to think of how people around the world live – with such life and death struggles, I do feel ashamed of my day-to-day existence and the real lack of difference I might make. But what I also work on having in my life is real and true gratitude…for the place I was lucky enough to be born in, and the time as well. Now more than ever, one person can make a difference.

    Thank you for relating your observations and concerns – I appreciate actors and other celebrities who take the spotlight that shines on them into places where it is usually dark.

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  157. Brynna Says:
    April 24th, 2007 at 9:32 pm

    I’ve thought about this topic frequently, and my conclusion is that greed – not money – is the root of all evil. The things that people will do for a buck never ceases to amaze me. Be it scammers, businessmen, politicians, or the guy next door, I find it sickening to know that there are so many people out there who are willing to trample on others to get what they want. And I’m not talking about people who act out of desperation. I’m referring to the souless predators who have more than they need,yet feel they’re also entitled to what belongs to someone else. If you have the capacity to feel guilt for your good fortune, and are empathetic to the plight of those less fortunate, then be thankful and rest easy. You are a good person whose soul is firmly intact.

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  158. Alex Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 2:11 am

    Hello Allison, I am a boy of Spain, my name is Alex and to write this to you reason why you were saying on the subject to help the rest of the people, little who I have been able to understand so that I do not occur me very or English I am waiter in a Bar at night and will receive to month 700$ always I have thought about supporting to a boy or to point me at one ong but gives me to think that perhaps the money does not go to the children in if if not directly to ong if the best option could be supported to a boy in your directly serious house but I am 25 years old and with the wage that I have I do not believe that me they grant it to please to be able to help but the truth is that not always they put it very easy to say your that you are a wonderful actress follows thus if you do not understand this im sorry is that this made with translator a Greeting Alex (Madrid Spain)

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  159. William Kaleva Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 4:45 am

    Not a rigorous economic treatise, and undoubtedly economically weak, but some interesting ideas for those who wonder about the morality of property as commodity, more of a reflection on the poetics of property and our dealings with it, is to be found in the following book: Lewis Hyde, The Gift: Imagination and the Erotic Life of Property (1983).

    There is a wonderful economics of helping others in the microeconomics and microeconomic loans you refer to, Allison, and that is a different issue than this book represents. But the idea of one being “gifted,” the actress, “talented, gifted,” and should the artistry be a gift or a commodity (or both) seems also to run into this commentary. i.e., should you get paid for it if it is fun?

    William Kaleva

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  160. Laura Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 5:30 am

    Hi Allison!
    Its funny this is your topic because I recently saw a movie trailor that talks about this! I think Ghandi was right- money itself is not the root of all evil. It is the love of money that is the root. A person with good intentions puts the power in money to good use. A person with temptations of self gain puts it towards needless things, temporary highs, etc. I think money can actually be a wonderful thing, if we can teach ourselves not to be selfish but put others first. Its a beautiful thought that everyone wants to try. But I think we fail sometimes because it is hard. Sometimes we tell ourselves we deserve whatever it is we get from it, and in the end, we are no happier. But if we experience guilt after making a wrong choice with how we handle our money, at least that means we care.

    Sidenote: So sad that Smallville is done taping!

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  161. jamiah Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 6:37 am

    Allison….

    Thank you once again for your beautiful thoughts. What a wonderfully inspirational human being was Gandhi…words not violent actions to inspire peace. Money is not “the root of all evil.” It is how the people who have it choose use it which can lead to less than humanitary ideals. Even beyond the grave, Chris and Dana Reeve’s paralysis foundation is still very active in eventually finding a cure. I truely believe that Christopher is now walking (maybe even flying) in heaven looking down on all of us. I just sent in for my Superman tags. Not a bad deal for $10.

    Allison, through your blog, we all can tell that your heart is as big as the character’s you bring to life on television. Chloe is just such an awesome character on Smallville that it is hard to believe that she has not been a part of the legend of Superman more than the 6 years you have brought her to life. It must be so cool to know that you have helped to create a brand new important role in a myth that has endured for more than 60 years.

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  162. Kaija Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 8:50 am

    Muhammad Yunus is a brilliant man- no doubt about that. He has had and will most certainly continue to have a great influnce in the world- especially in the economical part on it.
    Money is mostly seen as a mean to an end. I used to believe that as well. Right now for me it is a mean to get my education to do something that I really love. I am one of those people who has been raised in the image that if it is fun then you can’t be doing a good job. But after a while it has taken a different meaning. I mean why should’t it be fun and profitable. The people who have made differences in the world have loved the things that they have done. If one wants to have a happy life then it is just logical to do something that you love. And when you do something like that then usually you will have an income that will satisfy you as well.

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  163. joey Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 10:34 am

    Good blog this week and happy belated birthday.

    joey

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  164. supertim Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 11:45 am

    Hello Allison!!!

    Love your blog and the deeply profound thoughts that have sprung from it!!!

    One thought I have is that I agree is that money itself is not the root of all evil. It is what people do with it. People misinterpret what it says in the Bible as moiney being the root of evil, but itt is actually the love of moeny that is the root of all evil. It’s like the old saying goes, “Guns don’t kill people, people kill people.”

    I think if we use our money for ill reasons that we ourselves are bad. It is not the money. But you’re right, we sometimes like to relinquish the repsonsibility to others (other people and other things) so we don’t feel guilty about ourselves.

    Keep the blog comin!!!! Love it!!!

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  165. juana Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 11:57 am

    Hi Allison,
    I think you are amazing , really amazing, thanks for everything.

    chau ;)

    Juana

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  166. davidh1113 Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 12:41 pm

    Hi Allison,

    Sorry to hear that you did not get to wind-up the work for this season with “a kiss with Tom Welling and some Egg McMuffins at 7:30 A.M.” Do hope Al and Miles will hear of this!! I mean seesh, don’t they understand a beautiful young lady like you deserves some perks!! ;)

    On to your quote about money. Indeed, many like to condem those that earn money, and try to make you feel bad if you are doing well. This has always been insane to me, and the only thing I can come up with is the addage, “misery loves company”. That is they use the logic of, “well if I do not have an egregious amount of money, why should you?” This has never made any sense to me even when I try to understand their logic!! Ha!!

    Also, in regards to what you said earlier, “until I actually acknowledged the effort that I put into my career, I felt very bad about taking the money for it.” You need not feel bad about taking money for your craft!!!! You have an amazing talent that few in this world have, and are duely compensated as such!! Take pride in your work, and know that it brings joy to many!!

    God bless!
    David Harvey
    Morrisville, NC

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  167. Shannon Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 1:03 pm

    I believe that it is not money that is the root of all evil, but rather the LOVE of money that is the root of all evil.

    That and honey-roasted peanuts. Because, let’s face it, those things are evil incarnate. Once you eat one there’s just no stopping.

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  168. Medina Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 2:21 pm

    Hello,

    Sorry my english, i´m a fan of Smalville (of course!) . The show is very popular in my city – Manaus a midle city in the Amazon State (yes, the jungle), North of Brazil.

    About money, a brazilian comedian said: Money isn´t everything , but is 100%

    Here in Brazil the last episode was about the Krypto Fight Club.

    I hope see you and movies. You are a wonderfull actrees

    peace

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  169. °.°Valéria°.° Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 2:46 pm

    Hello Allison, I passed here for leave a big°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°hello kiss! !!!!

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  170. Selena Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 4:27 pm

    I love you and I think that you are so smart and wonderful and great stuff.

    I agree with Shannon it is the love of money that is the root of all evil. It is actually in the Bible. It is the love of what money represents/can do/buy/procure that makes people act less than human.

    There is so much that can be done with resources and humans are called in my believes to be good stewards of what we get/earn to empower and improve our lives, the lives of others and the world.

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  171. arkantos84 Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 4:32 pm

    Ciao Allison,

    I’m the newest in your blog and, surprise!, it seems that I’m the only italian user here…. bah! ok, lasciamo perdere… :)

    I think only one thing… (I write in Italian ’cause I’m not an expert of english language)

    Per quanto i paesi del terzo mondo possano cercare di risollevarsi dalla polvere, finchè ci sono Stati, tra cui l’Italia, che non fanno qualcosa di concreto, come ad esempio cancellare il debito, sarà molto difficile, qualunque siano le novità proposte in economia, che questi paesi camminino con le loro gambe… L’uomo è un animale furbo, così tanto che riesce anche a ingannare se stesso… (quest’ultima frase è un mio pensiero, non farci caso!)

    Errrr…. I try to translate it (NO COMMENT, :) )

    For how much the countries of the third world can try to wakes up from the powder, if there are Nations, like Italy, than they do not make something of concrete, like as an example cancelling the debit, will be much difficult, any are the innovationes proposed in economy, than these countries walk with their legs… The man is a clever animal, therefore a lot that succeeds also to trick if same… (this last phrase is a my thought, non farci caso!)

    So… I hope that you read my comment, and I hope that you come here in Italy again, and if you want, contact me!!! ah!ah!ah! Also ’cause if I “catch” you, i take you and we marry immediatly!!!Anche perchè se riesco a prenderti, ti prendo e ti sposo immediatamente!!! Un bacione

    Alex

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  172. Nicolas Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 6:19 pm

    Hi Allison, my name is Nicolas, I’m from Argentina.
    Apart from being an outstanding actress, you are a beautiful person, I like the way you care about people, it’s something very noble about yourself, I really don’t know what to say, I get nervous y it’s just your fan blog.
    I love watching you on Smallville, and what I like of you the best is your beautiful smile. I’d love to be an actor like you, to travel to the U.S.A. and work on movies, series, and to help people the way you do, but I can’t, because I don’t have much time, I’ve to work then go to the highschool, but I’ll try to make some time and start my acting career. In my free time I usually write poetry and some songs, I also like to draw, I’d like to show you some of my poems some day, but for now I just hope that you read my comment, and that you know that in the other side of the continent there is a boy who admires you greatly, not only because of your acting, but for the good person you are.
    I don’t have a website, so I give you the closest thing I have, which is my fotolog. I hope that one day I have the honor of your comment, that would make me very happy.
    I would write you so many things, but I don’t know where to begin or even where to end. I think it would take too much space, even though it has already taken a lot of space.
    Thanks for what you give us every day on the TV, thanks for letting me put a comment, I really hope you read this. Kisses to you.
    Goodbye.

    nico

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  173. Sarah P. Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 6:56 pm

    Personally, i think money is the root of all evil, because it drives us to greed. people go as far as to kill to get money. It can also ruin lives. As for smallville, i think you are still doing a Superbilous job! I hope you win the saturn award you are nominated for! You totally deserve it! Congrats on finishing up the season. Now you can relax! Well, So long for now. SARAH P. OUT!
    YOU RULE ALLISON!

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  174. Karla Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 7:18 pm

    Hey Allison!

    Im currently reading Atlas Shrugged, so the whole talk about capitalism and money got my attention. If you haven’t you should definetely get that book. It’s pretty darn awesome. :)

    Good luck in everything! :P

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  175. Ryan Says:
    April 25th, 2007 at 11:06 pm

    Abuse of power is the “root of all evil.”

    Even if money didn’t exist, there would be something — status, beauty, strength, intelligence — that would allow some of us to use power over others. That is what happened under the Soviet system; that is what is happening under our capitalist system; and that is what has happened in almost any society.

    I think the answer is to begin to create a system which tries to avoid positions of power. But that takes not only the right political structures, but also a change in attitude of people. We need to know that we are better off when we celebrate what is best in all rather than what separates some.

    No “modern” society has done this, but others, such as the !Kung San of the Kalahari and other hunter gather societies have lived together in much more cooperative ways. And without the rest of the world’s supposed progress, they were fairly happy.

    Maybe there is a way we can create a more egalitarian world within our world of technology and impossibly interconnected economic systems. Maybe there is, but does anyone have any ideas about where to start?

    On a lighter note, thanks for entertaining me every week (plus re-runs!) on Smallville.

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  176. Brent Mills Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 12:07 am

    Is money the root of all evil???

    I think that it is the LACK of money that is the root of all evil..

    (Hope i havn’t repeated a previous statement)

    B

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  177. Adam Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 12:13 am

    Yes, I think it is. It’s a crime that so many people are suffering and starving in this world, but so few control so much of the money. I can’t see that ever changing though – it’s human nature unfortunately.

    On a lighter note, here is the proof that women are evil:-

    For a guy to satisfy a woman, he needs to give her time and money

    WOMAN = TIME x MONEY

    As we all know Time is money, so;

    TIME = MONEY

    Therefore;

    WOMAN = MONEY x MONEY

    And assuming money IS the root of all evil,

    WOMAN = Rt EVIL x Rt EVIL
    = EVIL

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  178. Matty / inLove_with_Chloe Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 12:18 am

    Hi Allison,
    when I saw the word ‘capital’ in this weeks quote I was like: “Oh my, this week we’re gonna discuss Karl Marx!!!” Hehe, thankfully I was wrong. Marx can be quite tedious. His beard was pretty impressive, his theories however created quite some trouble in the last century….. Let’s face it: we need money as a currency to motivate people, so they can achieve their goals, realize their potential. Otherwise everyone will hope their neighbor might do the job so they can be lazy. You may know: being lazy is great!!! Aaaaaaaaah, I simply love it. I can do nothing for hours and hours. However, one gets almost nothing done…. Hehe. So, please don’t feel bad about making money. You are EXTREMELY good at what you do. You definitely deserve recognition, which is measured by money in our world. Anyway, you seem to have found very interesting charities and NGO’s, so you can always donate some money I guess ;) .
    OK, that’s it for this week – have a nice vacation!!!

    P.S.
    I am saddened to read that Chloe did not kiss Clark this year….. Well, at least not on the last day of shooting, hehe.

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  179. Guy Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 2:11 am

    Hello Allison!

    Wanted to write that we in ISRAEL REALLY REALLY REALLY like smallville and think you are great, so now you have to know we exist !
    which helps us much more enjoying the show and feel connected !

    Guy,
    Israel

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  180. Nicodemus Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 3:31 am

    That’s it, you hit it! Money itself isn’t the root of all evil, the love of money is the root of all evil (according to The Bible)

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  181. Rebecca Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 4:14 am

    Allison,

    Thanks for passing along the microfinancing idea. I’ll definitely check into it.
    I’m glad to hear that underdeveloped countries are trying to do things for themselves because as you mentioned, it does give people a sense of pride and accomplish and in my mind, that’s always better than a handout.
    I’ve previously written here in your blog about my own hard-heartedness towards people who give up and become homelesss because they think they can’t work or don’t try hard enough to improve themselves and I think the idea of giving people a start so they can pick themselves up could be a great idea.

    I’m a Christian, so I know of the passage that speaks about money being the root of all evil and a lot of that is also about how we can’t serve both God AND money. We can’t serve two masters. It’s about giving up our LOVE for money, but not necessarily, that money, itself, is a bad thing.
    I know Christians who are wealthy and use that money to serve others and organizations who need it. I don’t think God frowns on that because after all, He is the one who provides us with everything we have.
    It’s when we are consumed with the overwhelming desire to make money and lavish ourselves with material things that it becomes the root of all evil.

    1 Timothy 6:10 is the passage that I think your Gandhi quote addresses:

    “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

    So, money is not evil. The LOVE of money is.

    We all have different jobs that pay different sums of money, but to me, it’s what we choose to do with it and our attitude towards it that makes the difference.
    My encouragement to you is to use your money to help others. To reach out to organizations that can make a difference. I heard once that the best way to combat greed is with giving and that’s what I try to remember.

    Sorry that this season of Smallville has ended a little differently than last year and I DO think maybe you need to talk to somebody about that :)

    Hope your break from the show is a good one and thanks for all the work you do and the way you entertain and inspire millions every week.

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  182. Emilia Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 5:03 am

    Wow, i’m so glad i found this blog of yours whilst you were only getting started! A pleasant coincidence whilst net surfing tonight if i might say so myself!
    It’s so refreshing to find that after watching you on SV and coming to read your blogs now, you’re every bit as intelligent and articulate as i imagined you would be! Compassionate and conscientious at that! You’re an inspiration and without trying to put too much pressure on you lol a wonderful role model to have!
    Thank you so much for letting us take a sneak peek into your thoughts and feeling’s.
    At the same time that words can be a form of violence, your words however influence thoughtfulness and kindness! We need more of this!

    Stay wonderful Miss Mack!

    Your Fan,

    Emilia

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  183. SomeGuy Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 5:21 am

    Hey all :D My birthday today :D Happy birthday ALLISON :D

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  184. Nathan Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 5:21 am

    I’m sure this has been said already, I’m too lazy to read all 175 or so comments.

    The biblical quote is, “the love of money is the root of all evil.” Basically greed, even more than pride, is the source of pain and suffering in the world.

    Just wanted to say I think you’re awesome. Oh and my dad did micro-financing in Indonesia among groups of women who wanted to start their own businesses for nearly 10 years. It’s really a cool program and I think he really managed to help a lot of people.

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  185. Megan Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 5:26 am

    I love the quote. I’ve used it in blogs of mine months ago. Great minds. ;)

    I was surprised at how you brought up microfinancing. I use this as well. :o It’s a great thing.

    Just one quick question, if you weren’t affected by it too much, in one of your next blogs, could you bring up the subject of the Virginia Tech shooting? I’d love to hear your thoughts on it. If not, I can just check over your last blog since it would probably be similar. :)

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  186. CAIS Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 6:51 am

    Hola Allison
    yoy un chico español de tu edad y la verdad que no se mucho ingles y he tenido que traducir tu pagina porque queria saber que escribias en tu blog ya que como actriz me has gustado mucho y queria saber si como persona ereas igual de simpatica y de buena persona como se te ve en la serie de smallville solo queria darte la enorabuena por tu vida profesional y por tu pagina de internet y que espero poder verte en mas peliculas y mas series porque eres muy buena actriz nose si te dejaran escribir a messenger pero me gustaria saber mas cosas de ti y poder hablar si fuera posible por lo menos una sola vez me haria ilusion, espero que te llege este mensaje y lo puedas leer aunque me imagino que todo el mundo quiere hablar contigo yo tendre la esperanza de que pueda ser alguna vez te dejo mi messenger espero que te llege cais_1924@hotmail.com. un beso desde españa ciao

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  187. William Kaleva Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 7:13 am

    Continuing on from my comment (#158) above, I want to refer to some interesting comments about Lewis Hyde’s book, The Gift, in Wendy J. Gordon, The Oxford Book of Legal Studies, Oxford University Press, edited by Peter Can and Mark Tushnet (October 2003), Chapter 28. In Chapter 28, Intellectual Property (p. 644) Professor Gordon writes:

    “Lewis Hyde in his evocative book, The Gift, sugggests that an important part of the aesthetic process is the living relation between the arts and what she receives. The beauty of the physical world and the life within predecessor artists’ work create in the receiving artist a sense of gratitude. The artist repays the gift by his own creation–so that gratitude becomes a catalyst (or better, a nutrient flueid) fostering new creativity. Hyde points out at least two things that can interfere with this necessary gratitude: monetary payment, and a sense of calculation. In my mind, the danger lies less in a need to pay, than in a need to calculate. Imagine a composer inspired by a book that she read as a child to make an opera of it. It is hard to imagine her genuine impulse of creativity surviving a process of calculating which chidren’s book has the best cost-benefit ratio between license fee and likely revenue flow. Much writing from artists of all kinds indicates that those whose motivation is intrinsic are not fully free to calculate, to search for the cheapest license or the author’s heir who does not object to his ancestor being reinterpreted and criticized….”

    And Professor Gordon continues:

    “…My own intuition is that we need to spend more time thinking about hte gift relationship and interdependence. What makes a community are the exchanges and reciprocity for which its members do not demand explicit and calculating payment. To demand too much payment may erode the sense of gratitude that is at the bottom of som many of our institutions, such as trust, and willingness to obey law.

    “Shareable goods are a traditional source of binding groups together: no ony standard ‘public goods’ such as highways and defense, but also folk tales, art, songs, and symphonies. The same is true on the technological side: even to drink a glass of water is to benefit from generations before us that learne dhow to temper glass, how to direct liquid flows, how to disinfect. We can nevery pay for everything we have–but we may, if forced to pay too often for too much, begin to have the illusion that we have paid for everything. The illusion of independence is dangerous when we are in reality interdependent…. [T]he new movements to ‘enclose’ [Intellectual Property] threaten to waste that potential. Even from a purely consequentialist perspective, therefore, the possibilities of gift relations need to be systematically explored.”

    Although Lewis Hyde’s book, The Gift, is clearly not rigorous by any economist’s perspective, my quotes above from Professor Wendy J. Gordon, clearly indicate that there is at least one law and economics scholar who thinks there are some pearls to be garnered from it.

    Again, I think this relates to some of the concerns and joys you expressed, Allison, in your comments above.

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  188. amarie Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 7:14 am

    Thank you once again for your gift of time to us and for the continued wonderful thoughts. It sounds like a great financial program!

    Man; no kiss with Tom or McMuffins? Wow, that’s a new definition of a bad day. I’ll complain to management too :-) !

    Money is a tricky topic. Root of all evil? I don’t think so – there’s always a choice. Aside from my feelings that political correctness is breaking down society, it’s troublesome to me the amount of influence money has on society – general livelihood has become expensive, but for what reason? It’s made *us* greedy and *we* have developed these extreme expectations and skewed views/ideas of what the good life really means. It’s somewhat unsettling that many times one is defined by their financial status and by the items that can be seen by the public; it’s like there is no more financial common ground – then again, did it ever really exist?
    Because I’m about to cross into debatable ground with more specifics, my final thought is not so much of guilt about my earned household income, but more disappointment that my household has become greedy and has developed the skewed views of what the good life really means. During hurricane season it was an annoyance that we lost power for a few hours. We had to remind ourselves to be thankful for the structure that was still standing without damage and protecting us from the weather that took out the power in the first place. Wow, if even only a handful of others were as fortunate as we were……

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  189. noa Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 8:30 am

    Money is not that evil….
    you always have a choise!
    you can help poor people,or just being a bored milioner like lex luthor….
    we love you in israel!
    noa

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  190. Kristina Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 8:42 am

    Me again!

    I forgot to ask about how it was to work with Lynda Carter! I used to watch Wonder Woman when I was little, and I LOVED her! She seems very sincere and kind…you can see it in her eyes. You are much like her in that way…both have very expressive faces.

    Also, I keep up to date on the Superman Celebration in Metropolis, IL. There is a rumor that a Smallville cast member will be a celebrity guest…any chance that it’s you? Or would you consider making an appearance in the future?

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  191. Dani Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 11:24 am

    Hi Again Alli,

    Really I feel happy to know about your thoughts and the creative way you share them with us all in such educational way of life. So thanks.

    A interesting new concept the microfinancing one you introduce in your weekly entrance, I think I’m going to share it with some friends of mine that don’t usually read in internet. The most people to know, the most good it works.

    Also, very good comments this week. Your blog site is becoming very additive :)

    Best regards all,

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  192. Jere J Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 1:31 pm

    I do belive that money is the root of evil, but only to a degree. THink about it when most of the bad things are done in world, they are done for money or some form of payment which makes it the core reason to do it, the root of the evil.

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  193. jesslyn452 Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 2:16 pm

    wow interesting topic. it hards to explain but here is what i think about it….
    money is very important in the world. some people say that money isn’t everything but it is. it can give you struggles or could give you a wonderful life. but the way you spend your money is always by choice.
    is it true that someone is going to die in the sixth season finale. i hope its not anyone that i like. things are turning so interesting and i don’t want anyone dieing to ruin it.
    anyways let me say that its an honor to me to connect with you, looking forward to next weeks blog!!!!!

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  194. Diogenes Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 3:23 pm

    Hello Allison, is the first time that I leave a message in its blog. It is interesting to exactly know the opinion of an artist who in folloied them for as much time, that without knowing through smallville. I will always come back. Kiss. P.S forgives the errors is of Brazil and my English if it summarizes to the translator of google.

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  195. tabetha Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 5:41 pm

    hi im tab well it good u got off work ealier my five old daughter ththink that u and clark should be together on the show. she also say she my little chloe. as for money been the root of all evil i believe it is and me and my husband are make good money now and we put our selves on a buget after we got in to some trouble i think it better to live with in your meaning and be happy than to be rich ihope that one day we can get back to when all the little thing matter and not the materials we have

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  196. lostdreamer1089 Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 5:50 pm

    Money confuses me to pieces. It drives me caaarazy. I’m moving to California in July, and it’s all I can worry about. Sadly enough, people have this impression that it makes the world go round. But of course it doesn’t…
    I went to India with my mom two years ago…and I’ll never forget it because everyone is so thankful for what they have. The kids where I’m from are ridiculous, they want more, and mooore. But these two little girls, they had nothing, yet they smiled more than I’ve ever seen anyone smile before. I loved it. I didn’t wanna leave. Now I’m 18…and I have to deal with all this stuff. All by myself. And I’m going into an unstable career, with no back up. The only reason I doubt myself…is because of money. I want to follow my dreams, and love what I do. Not dread the future…I dont know…basically, I agree. money…is great to have…but you can be happy without it. *siigh* its nice to let that out. thanks.
    by the way… your so very veryyy talented. Which inspires me to never give up what I want to do. Thanks again.

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  197. Marlos Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 6:24 pm

    Oi, Allison!!!!!
    It´s a pleasure to read your blog one more time!
    This blog leaves me each time much happyer and satisfied being a fan of a great actress, but mainly of a person who worries about the world around, and reflects on your proper acts and searches to interact with other people to learn more about us and about you. On the message of this week, I confess that I was admired for speaking exactly of as the money can be good or bad. Although the money is necessary to live, I believe that many people still place the money and corporeal properties above of anything, as family, friends and many other really important things. I find that the money doesn’t bring happiness, but in the aid to live of a more comfortable form, if it will be well used. I always look for use the money of the best possible form, and confess that sometimes I save excessively! Changing the issue, I entered in the sites that you indicated and I read on what they make and their objectives, and I confess that I found such ideas very interesting: help the people without conditions financial of commencing your own business, powers act a part the things for oneself what if we’ll become, with much willpower, independent economically. Initiatives as these make me to believe that this world still can be a place more just and with equality of chances. Certain day, I attended an interview with Muhammad Yunus, before gaining the Nobel prize, and I found the idea of the “microfinancing” very interesting and I think that examples as these must be supported by all the society, of form that function of constant and sustainable form. In my country, there are a lot of organizations that help the poor people in many forms, because the government of my country in many times doesn’t do what they have to do, and this is so disgusting to me to say. Talking about my favorite series, I would like that you said “no kisses and no Muffins, but… don’t worry! Nobody will die in the season finale of Smallville! There were only remark rumors!” Then, only remains to wait to see what it goes to happen and I wait that nothing of bad happens with Chloe!!!! Hum… Clark fighting with Bizarro…. I can´t wait! About Chloe’s power, I want that it is well and that it is vital for one of the personages (Chloe saving the Clark?! This would be very interesting!!! A inversion of papers!!!!). No kisses? Wow… this is not good, where is the annual Clark/Chloe Kiss???? I want they together!!!! Good, I would like to lock up this message saying that it is really cool to be able to correspond with you and I hope you continue to write so interesting and pretty messages as this!!!!!
    Tchau, Allison!!!
    Sincerely,
    MARLOS
    ps: sorry for my English, I hope you understand my thoughts!!!!!
    ps2: I hope you read all the message with much care, like I(and the other people who write to you, I think) write to you….

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  198. joshua Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 7:09 pm

    well first let me start off by saying, (Dance me to the end of love) i can dig, never really my thing, but i can dig.

    But money being the root of all evil, I dont know about that! But more that it’s people’s double standard of greed. Everybody say’s donate money, give money, well then why is it then that people are striving to make so much money and donateing or giving so little. its like….
    a rich man gave $1,000,000 to charity
    and a poor man gave all he had to charity … $10

    what man gave more?well lookin forward to hearin from you!

    your fan
    joshua

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  199. BOUROUX Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 8:42 pm

    Hi Allison.
    It’s amazing to have the possibility to speak with you each week.
    I saw Progeny last thursday and you are great. I like the chemistry between Chloe and Clark. I am disappointed that death is used to promote the series . I read in your bio that you was a performer in “Rent” and “Chicago.” Do you have audio clip of those performances? I hope this week is more releasing that the last. With this blog we see the real Allison and we like what we see . Thanks again.
    For the quote. The money is the root of evil when it becomes our principal preocupation. We have 2 situations: lack of money or the desire to have some more . It’s the second situation which worries me more . These persons lost a part of their humanity. It’s fantastic that public person like you give the hope that something change. It’s fantastic to see the link between the blogs.
    Have a good hiatus.
    Bye.

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  200. James Says:
    April 26th, 2007 at 10:43 pm

    I’m a business student and I have to agree. Capital or money is not evil at all! Money’s role in the world is just a tool, or grease for the economic gears in society. Money is used to satisfy this little thing called the double coincidence of wants, without the concept of money the development of the world would have been much slower.

    Anyways to go off topic, it’s been great to read your blog entries! I really enjoy reading about your experiences because they’re so different from my own yet it seems as if we’re both learning a lot!

    I’ve been a university student for the past few years and have probably learned the most during this time period, but it doesn’t really have to do with university itself but the life experiences I’m getting. And yea, it’s just great to read your thoughts and experiences and kind of parallel it to my own since I’m coming from a pretty different background!

    Keep up the good work! I can’t wait to see what roles you’ll take up after Smallville!

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  201. Alex Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 12:30 am

    Hi! Alyson

    Today in society we all need money survive, yet a lot of individuals who are in power use money just for themselves and don’t share with the ones in need. However, if the whole world would put aside their differences and shared with one another instead of fighting the world would be a better place.

    Also, I really admire your hard work on Smallville
    your a funny, smart and charsmatic individual.
    I really hope they don’t take you out of the seris because without you this amazing show won’t be the same.

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  202. Adam Anouer Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 1:49 am

    Hello allison i must say the topics are getting much much more deep. Anyway i personally believe that money is not the root of all evil as alot of people claim. I think its the people who’s minds are easily suduced by the idea that money is power. Now i dont think anyone should ever feel guilty about spending money even though theres less fortunate people then us. I do sometimes like to give to charity dont get me wrong but i dont rake myself with guilt because i am more fortunate then some. My personal oppinion is that its your money and you earned it doing what you love. I have to say you inspire alot of people all over the world myself included.

    I love your acting in smallville and please keep it up. And for the record egg mcmuffins at 7:30 in the morning just reminds me i haven’t had mcdonalds in a while thanks for reminding me.

    Adam

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  203. Scott Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 3:26 am

    I’m sorry to hear about the kiss. I’ve always been pulling for you. (If it makes you feel any better.) And I think you really should talk to your manager! ;)

    I think your quote is pretty valid this week. Well they always have been. What I mean is that I don’t think it’s our need for money or things that drives us. I think sometimes (maybe most of the time) it’s the feeling like we have to keep up with everyone else or one up other people that compels us to do things. Jealousy. Maybe it really is a deadly sin.

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  204. SOS Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 5:47 am

    Some of Ghandi’s statements are just common sense. Money’s original intention was its use as a “means of exchange”, meaning that it was to be used as the “middleman” for the trade of goods and services. Through many years of manipulation, the use of money devolved into what we know as modern day capitalism. Capitalism as we know it, is evil because it is almost entirely based on the concept of “usury”. Charging people who don’t have money to use their money, and requiring them to pay it back at higher than its original value makes money a commodity, and that was never its intention.

    Now, there are all sorts of various ways to make money “on money” that has devolved over the years, from CDs to financial currency exchange, that allow the few who have exhorbitant amounts of it to control those who don’t, in essence, effectively controlling public policy and the world in general. If you don’t believe me, just over twenty years ago, 25% of the worlds wealth used to be in 75% of the population. Today, that figure is now 92% of the worlds wealth is in the hands of 8% of the world’s population, and it’s only bound to get worse. Unfortunately, I do not remember the source of the quote, only the information contained within it.

    Usury leads to devaluation of currency (inflation) through the printing of more money, which becomes a cycle in itself. This is self-evident from just looking at the value of gold over the years which is still price fixed in London.

    All three of what could be considered the world’s greatest monotheistic faiths (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) forbid usury. Only the latter still does.

    Ghandi was right. However, its wrong use was never money’s real intention in the first place. That’s typically been the inherent nature of most of humanity’s inventions. Their original intentions were good. As time passed, corrupt people invented new ways to manipulate them, other people went along with it, and all of the various machinations led up to the state of the world that we’re in today.

    Life is a cycle until it will all end someday. Reform is coming.

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  205. Yin Li Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 6:29 am

    终于找到组织了…
    Chloe, you are the best!

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  206. william Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 7:20 am

    there are a lot of ideas out there for people to help others,it just takes a willingness for people to do so. there is a quote (i do not remember who said it.) but it says that the only way for bad things to happen is for good people to do nothing.

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  207. SOS Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 8:29 am

    BTW, Allison, I love your smile. Always have. ;)

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  208. Isai Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 11:33 am

    Hey Alli.

    I agree with a lot of people on this one: money is just a medium by which evil deeds can be done. It can either be used as a tool to better one’s or someone else’s condition or as a weapon to do the same at the cost of someone elses’. It’s a matter of choice. Money is power and sometimes it corrupts as we’ve all heard, but only if you let it.

    People with money don’t scare me, greedy people, on the other hand, do. They don’t care where the money comes from as long as it keeps flowing into their bank accounts. Take Enron for example. Execs and many others made millions at the cost of other people’s suffering. What’s worse is that only a handfull of these people were held accountable in the end. The rest were left alone with their lil shoulder angles “living it up” on a remote tropical island somewhere.

    I’m glad you don’t feel guilty about your earnings anymore because they’re precisely that, earnings. You seem the type of person that goes home at the end of the day smiling, feeling absolutely thankful that you are blessed with the opportunity to get paid for doing what you love to do. It’s an amazing gift.

    Speaking of amazing gifts, thank you for sharing your smile with us.

    -isai

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  209. Heidi Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 11:47 am

    You are on of my favorite actresses. Keep up the good work. And that’s to bad you didn’t get a kiss from Tom, horible! ;-)

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  210. rew Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 11:54 am

    hey allison so whats happening with you and kk on the show smallville…i been seeing post about you or her leaving, anything you would like to say about that? are you and her going to be in the full season 7?

    oh and like your writing keep it up

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  211. smallvillekent Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 12:10 pm

    Allison, I love your blog. You do a great job on Smallville as Chole! Keep smiling! Chole and Clark should get together!

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  212. John Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 12:28 pm

    My friend works for Kiva and it’s a really great. I’m glad you mentioned it!

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  213. CAIS Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 12:39 pm

    Hola Allison
    muchas gracias por publicar lo que te deje escrito y tambien gracias al asesor por dejarme que aparezca en tu pagina espero que lo ayas podido leer aunque te escriba en español pero como ya te dije no hablo mucho ingles y tu pagina la tengo traducida para leerte.
    No se como podria ponerme en contacto contigo a lo mejor tu asesor o moderador como creo que decis vosotros me puede ayudar yo dejo mi messenger por si tu o el me escribis yo espero respuesta, porque me gustaria montar un club de fans n España paraque si algun dia vienes a España te encuentres bien y como decimos nosotros arropada y agusto aqui espero vuestra respuesta a mi messenger muchas gracias.
    Recuerdos desde España y besos Allison.

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  214. M@rk Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 2:04 pm

    Wow, you’re not just simply a vision; but a wonderful person, too. I never doubted otherwise, but it’s reassuring that there are extremely talented actors out there who take time to devote blogs to economical and social struggles in the world, their fans etc. It’s wonderful!

    ~
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    Don’t ask why I did that… possibly to attract your attention so you’ll read my comment. Heh.

    ~
    ~
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    Before I go into anything else. I’d just like to say that I absolutely love your work on Smallville. Love. Love. Love it! I am not going to lie; I do think season six has been fairly shaky thematically, going for fan-boy cop-outs rather than something solid, but Chloe‘s characterisation has been top-notch. I still love the show, mind. ANYWAYS. You just seem to improve with each episode, glow that little bit more with every piece of dialogue you masterfully deliver. This may sound like yet another fan-boy praising, and I suppose it is, but as a reviewer (Only starting out – been published in a few movie mags – freelance, yay me! Heh) I must say you really make the show what it is. The Chloe centric episode this season “Freak” has been the best episode so far.

    And while I won’t go in specifics, if the season finale this year is as COLD as I feel it will be the show will most definitely struggle for season seven… I hope I’m wrong.

    You’re a true Talent.

    I’m glad I stumbled across this site.

    Keep up the magnificent work. You’ll be around for quite some time on our screens. Cherish every moment!

    ~

    M@rk

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  215. João Rômulo Negri Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 2:24 pm

    Hi Allison how are you?? What´s the problem if you are receiving for doing something that you like? There´s no problem for me because there´re some people who doesn´t have the same oportunitiy as you. So i think you are blessed. I know that you´re not gonna use the money for something bad so there´s no problem.

    I wanna see you happy.

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  216. °.°Valéria°.° Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 2:27 pm

    Hello allison whenever I am able to I come here for leave a big kiss! !!!!!!!!bye!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
    !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    !!!!!!!!!!
    !!!!
    the end!!

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  217. THOMAS Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 3:09 pm

    hello my name is thomas i am french you have a great success in france with the series SMALLVILLE but for me you are a great actress your website is in my favorite sites i come everydays for to watch your blog i am a big fan of you i think you are the best actress in smallville because you feel naturalness and sincere so you are my favourite actress and you will always be the best for me

    thomas for ALLISON,a french fan so one thousand excuses
    a big kissss!!!!!!!! :)

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  218. Mariana Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 6:46 pm

    Do you know, allison, that you surprise me every week? I never realized, while watching smallville, that you were so beautiful on the inside( you are also really pretty on the outside). It’s amazing to know what you think, it’s almost like we all knew you here. You are much more than a pretty face, you’re also very intelligent. Keep writing, because the more I read, the more I admire you.
    Many kisses,
    Mariana

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  219. German Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 9:19 pm

    Hey, Allison hope you get a chance to read this. Love your acting, just want you to know that your in my prayers. No, i’m not a psycho…trust me. I’m a normal guy who knows Jesus!!, and just felt like you needed some prayer. Prayer never hurts anyone,but if you ever feel lonenly, hurt forgotten, unhappy and like your world just wants to crumble, remember the words of the one who created Ghandi…He said;”come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (mattew 11;28, the bible). It’s not about religion, because religion is just like politics, full of lies and deceptions. I pray you read this (Allison) and that when ever you find yourself alone you call upon Jesus and find the peace and the love that only HE can only freely give. (remember you’ll make it if you believe.)

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  220. James Says:
    April 27th, 2007 at 11:30 pm

    Cheese and crackers! There are always so many comments on this page, we love your involvement with your fans as well as your imparting personal ideology. I’m still looking forward to your next blog, God bless!

    Again, feel free to visit me sometime http://www.myspace.com/1by3 .

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  221. B Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 12:03 am

    really sorry about the non-kissing part this year;)
    we do need the annual kiss of chlark :)

    and about the poll.. i don’t think that money is the root of all evil.
    if there is a man who’s really mean, if he had the money, the only diffrence is that than he got the reasources to do smth about it,
    it’s hard to change a person persunality, somethime’s it’s inposibble
    money may give you the feeling of power but good people will know that they need to do the right thing with that power.

    and hope everything’s good :)
    can’t wait for your next entry! :) B-Israel.

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  222. gégé Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 3:05 am

    An other great quote from Gandhi. Money is an important subject nowadays. This quote makes us think about it and react. When you’ve got money, that’s true that you live better. You can improve your daily life. Sometimes, you work hard just to earn enough money to eat and drink: it happens in our contries and in under-developped world.
    I agree with you that we can use money to help people live better. it’s a good use for money and we feel a little less guilty with what happen in our world.
    In fact, money can make us feel happy but that’s not all. There are others things that can bring us more pleasure.

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  223. Arnold Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 9:39 am

    Money isn’t the root of all evil, the bible says the “Love of money, is the root of all evil.” Basically all evil comes from greed.

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  224. Susan Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 10:37 am

    Hey Allison, what no Mc muffins and no Kiss LOL.

    Poverty is a major issue right now all around the world. I think alot of is it due to the fact that some people throw their money away on things they don’t really need. I see young girls with credit cards all the time at the mall buying the latest clothes and handbags to keep up with the young stars in HollyWood. If they keep this up they will end up in debt at an early age. Sure don’t get me wrong I love to shop but I also know how to save money. Money makes people happy and to some very greedy. I think money is the root of all evil. It changes people. I plan on checking out the websites above. I think it’s a great program.

    I love your pictures,when are we going to see a picture of you and your boyfriend? I saw the movie RV and saw Chad playing the scruffy teenager, I gotta say scruffy and all he is Really Cute. I hope you are really happy together. :)

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  225. Jake Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 10:49 am

    I have watched the show since it started and haven’t missed an episode yet, luckily all the travelling I have done has been done over reruns, I really hop ehte writers get their heads out of you know where and start writing more episodes with you as the heroine, I liked the Episode Blank where you “babysat” Clark, it showed your , for lack of better word, maternal instict toward his powers and him. Keep up the good work and I look forward to seeing Season Seven. Jake

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  226. Elsa Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 10:54 am

    This is such a great quote you gave… I think earning money is a very important thing today. Without it you can’t afford even the essentials of life: food, drink and clothes. But I think there are too many people out there who don’t know what to do with their money (because they apparantly have too much) and then they blow it instead of giving it to the poor people in the world. And this is the thing which is crazy. Of course we all can do something for other people, but sometimes we also have to look ahead and think of ourselves. If I could give a little bit money directly to a poor family I’d do it, but some companies who claim to give it to them are evil, too…

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  227. Jabba Kabba Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 12:15 pm

    Capital as such is not evil; it is its USER that is evil. Capital in some form or other will always be needed.” – Gandhi

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  228. Tausif Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 2:43 pm

    Hi there Allison, I gotta start off just like so many before me, incredible work in Smallville. You are definitely my favourite. Even though I’ve been a ardent Superman fan since years before Smallville ever appeared, now I really do watch the show only for you, and I know you get a lot of this, but u really do have one hell of a beautiful smile.
    Anyhow, loved your topic of this week (me new here so this is the first one i read, but gonna b reading bakwards frm now on). Appreciate the mention of Grameen Banks activities. I’m not sure, but I believe I’m the first Bangladeshi to be leaving a post here, and it feels good to know that we’re finally on the map, and no longer having to go thru the phase where every1 thought we were just another part of India or some other country. I’d most definitely be checking out the other site you mentioned. :)
    Nehow, considering the root of all evil, for me it’s never been money. I always believed the root of all evil to be arrogance, or even pride, it’s younger cousin. If you think carefully, even greed is derived from pride, the arrogance of believing u deserve something that some1 else has, or something that no1 else has. Buddhist monks seemed to have nailed it,”Avoid all things which give rise to pride, and u shall achieve Nirvana”. Maybe this could be the next topic of your blog, ‘Is pride the source of all evil??’ Let’s face it, no matter which historical ‘bad guy’ u choose to study, they all had extremely over inflated egos.
    I guess I should cut this short. Great job with the blog, this is my first post, so if this is too long or something, then really sorry about that. Keep up the good work in Smallville, as well as in the blog.

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  229. Anissa Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 4:31 pm

    Still me lol…

    I think the money is a bad thing, because that creates tention and conflicts ..

    I think Gandhi is very important person… He is a example for the world…
    That does not have any report, but I love India.. It’s my passion.. I love Films of Bollywood ( also it of Hollywood lol )….

    Sorry , I tell my life lol

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  230. Camilla Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 6:15 pm

    hey allison!!!!
    my name is Camilla, i’m 16 and i’m from Brazil!!!
    I’ve already written here on tha topic before this one
    love your topics

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  231. Carlos Martinez Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 6:28 pm

    I think money isn’t the root of all evil. Don’t worry so much about the money. Despite the money can seem the root of some evil, it isn’t. I think the real origin of evil has relation with EGOISM, ENVY, GREED, AMBITION, …

    I think as one user called Melissa. She said this phrase: “Money has the power to corrupt, but it is not the root of all evil”.

    We shouldn’t think that money is so bad. Sometimes I feel as you, Allison, when i’m going to be paid for my work…. I also don’t like speaking with my boss about my salary… But, what can we do? We need money to live, to buy or rent a house, to eat… Buf!, i’ve just bought a house with my girlfriend and we have to pay money monthly to the bank for the next 25 years!!!!.

    Yes… There isn’t anything better than help someone. Everybody can help other people. You should start with the nearest people (People of the same city, the neighbours, the friends, the family). Then you can go far away… At this moment, I like helping people with their small problems of each day. Although I hadn’t thought helping people of another countries, I have read about microfinance and it is very interesting.

    Please, excuse me because I speak really bad English. ;-)

    Ciao

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  232. Camilla Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 6:49 pm

    hey Allison!!!!
    it’s Camilla again!!!
    sorry but i don’t know what happened, i was writing and i think maybe i pressed enter accidentaly, so i’m writing again ok!?!?!
    as i was saying, i love your topics, i think they really make us stop, and think about what is going on with the world!!!
    about this one: money is very important nowadays, but is not everything!
    in my opinion people who have a lot of money should help those who are less fortunate (hope you understood what i ment!!!)

    about smallville, i was kind of sad to know that we won’t have a kiss between Chloe and Clark, i really wanted them to be together in the end of smallville, althought i also like Jimmy!!!
    i just hope Chloe will be there for season 7!!!

    thanks for your time!!!
    i know you are probably really busy but if you could send me an e-mail or visit my orkut page (it’s a brazilian site)
    i would be very HAPPY!!!
    so here it is:
    http://www.orkut.com/Home.aspx?xid=5463798513534754632

    thanks again!!!

    kisses from Brazil!!!

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  233. Holden Caulfield Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 6:54 pm

    you are such an attractive and successful actress.i hope i get the chance to meet you one day, although i have no idea what i’d say. your personality and charisma is so; warm. well, good luck on life, or maybe you don’t need it. i on the other hand still need to find my passion and my place in the world; it’s definitely not in my high school; people can be so ignorant and stupid sometimes. i feel like i’m talking to myself here, but whatever, sometimes you just got to speak(type).

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  234. Mayan Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 8:06 pm

    Hi, Allison! You are such an intelligent young lady and you are so inspirational; I love that you are always so upbeat and positive! I bet that you are a blast to be around :o ). You do so well with the character of Chloe on “Smallville” (and all the time you get to spend with Tom, I’m sure thats quite nice…hehe). “Smallville” is my all time favorite show. I came to college and even got both of my roommates hooked on it. We have our weekly “Smallville” Thursdays in our living room with to-go plates from the dining hall, its become a ritual that gets us through the hectic week! You do soooo well with the character of Chloe, she is definitely one of my favorites on the show! I am very glad that you are doing what you are passionate for, and I wish you the very, very best in the future! Keep up the amazing work, and enjoy your break! You deserve it!
    Mayan Richter

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  235. Israel Cassiano Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 8:49 pm

    Oi Alison, fico muito feliz pelo seu sucesso eminente, amo seu papel em Smallville, mas também eu vejo em você um grande futuro, acredite, você tem uma legião de fãs aqui no Brasil, admiro e acompanho seu trabalho de perto, esperamos que seja longa a sua vida em smallville, e gostaria muito que você respondesse esse meu comentário em seu blog. Não me considero fã, e sim um admirador pessoal seu…

    Kisses…

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  236. Justin19 Says:
    April 28th, 2007 at 10:07 pm

    Money itself isn’t evil, but those who lust for it are. Most of us learn about the sayings and deeds of people in the past or present day in order to entrust ourselves to their wisdom and try to prevent imperfections such as selfishness and greed, however as it is such a huge necessity in life, it can be easy to fall victim to it’s influence. Some people just have to realize that money isn’t everything…and it cannot buy happiness either.

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  237. ZC Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 1:27 am

    happy birthday!
    I’m your fan
    I love you ! you are great ! Keep smiling!

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  238. ZC Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 1:36 am

    I’m a chiness.
    now time of beijing is 17:35
    ha
    you are sleeping. good night !!!!

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  239. Paz Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 10:12 am

    Hi i just whated to say i think ur grate and i love ur work i know this is old but i just love u in Smallvile and i whated to thank u for tacking that roal as clarks friend if u did not i whould have been lost with out u so thank

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  240. nikki Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 10:51 am

    allison, i absolutely adore you. it’s so comforting to hear a celebrity that really and truely cares about people and has such a warm and loving heart. i’m so glad you do this website and i’ve always been a big fan of yours and knew that you were such a wonderful person. i wouldn’t be such a huge fan of smallville if it wasn’t for you and your character. you are truely extraordinary. god bless you always. =]

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  241. Ricardo Nogueira Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 1:29 pm

    Olá Allison,

    Gostaria de parabenizar pelo seu trabalho no Seriado Smallville que aqui no Brasil é assistido por muitas pessoas, eu acompanho a série desdo inicio, e sua forma de interpretar sempre foi brilhante e essencial para a continuidade da série.

    Um grande Abraço Chloe !

    by Ricardo Nogueira

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  242. LucianaBrazil Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 3:05 pm

    Olá Allison
    Você tem um bom gosto musical, e suas idéias são fantásticas.
    Aqui no Brasil, o nosso Governo ajuda mas infelizmente o juros é muito alto, as pessoas ficam escravas durantes anos ou até decadas. Tudo para comprar uma casa e estudar. É muito triste a nossa realidade, mas, enfim isso tudo é consequência do Capitalismo, e de paises que exploram os paise pobres, assim considero meu pais Miseralvel, onde 2% ou mais estão entre os ricos isso inclui até politicos.
    É vergonhoso.
    Mas o que salva o nosso pais são as ONGs, que ajudam as pessoas a produzir alimentos, guardar água, etc…
    Fico agradecida por suas palavras
    Obrigada Luciana

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  243. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 3:51 pm

    This all brings to mind another question best asked of Alex Haley: Is making money off of “Roots” evil? … or is it just the LOVE of making money off of “Roots” evil?

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  244. Claudia Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 4:02 pm

    hola Allison! my first comment here but I´m not new, I ´ve read all your blogs… they´re all amazing Thanks for doing this…you are an awsome being

    I´m from Peru and wow! you are so far away.I really LOVE Smallive,especially your work there(love your character).
    It´s good to know that you are reading what your fans think….and I must say, lots of your admirers( like me) have kinda like your age…that´s so cool

    oh and I know you like to travel, in my country we have Macchupicchu hehe so beautiful…you can come here anytime you want:D

    take care
    Saludos desde Peru
    clau

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  245. Gaby Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 4:08 pm

    Hello Allison!

    You’re a wonderful person, it’s great that you put your ideias like this to your fans, you really are smart as you look like.
    It’s wonderful to know that at least someone is worried about the world. Keep it like this girl!

    Love,
    Gaby.

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  246. Maria Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 5:56 pm

    allison im sure you wont read this comment because of the MILLION of comments that are here but heck ill write anyway.

    I dont think money is the root of all evil. I think that love for money is evil.the greed. those who have power but want more. i think that money is a weakness in all human beings. we should do what we can to overcome this weakness. for thanks to us giving in to the weakness that is called money, alot of people suffer everyday.

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  247. Krystal Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 7:07 pm

    Hi Allison,

    I have not had a chance to comment since the first entry, but I just want you to know that every entry has evoked change in my life. I am a teacher and when you wrote about why we do what we do, I went into the class room with a refreshed and invigorated passion for my job. The other teachers and students kept asking what I was so happy about. I have also taken the blog about violence to heart and have tried to make an effort to be more “Me friendly”.

    Now about this weeks quote.

    Hebrews 13:5 says
    “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” [ Deut. 31:6] I think the key word is “love”. The “love” of money is what can be evil. We know that the word love implies an intensity that can not be taken lightly. I think that if you are using your money for such good causes as you spoke about in your blog, that your “love” is being directed appropriately upon other mankind. If the “love” were inclined toward the object,money, a more selfish tendency would result and when we are selfish we focus inward. These things that you have shared show an outward focus of selflessness. The two really can not cohabitate in our hearts. I know that we may battle with ourselves at times between the two, but I think that your attitude shows compassion that just can’t result with improper motives. If those of us who have, live with this in mind:

    “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

    then I think we will stay free and clear from the evil of loving money.

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  248. Ramiro Says:
    April 29th, 2007 at 7:15 pm

    hi!!!! i´m writing from Argentina… is wired because i never thought that i was going to get in touch with you.

    As your acting your blog is great! jaja.. i hope you can carry on with all this success and have a good time….

    sorry for my english =) ….. ah…. you have a wonderful SMILE!

    bye!

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  249. Linnea Gard Says:
    April 30th, 2007 at 1:25 am

    Thank you Allison for your great blog!
    The blog entry about money is truly inspiring, especially since my birthday is the 12th of May and I’m planning to help the world a bit better by becoming a polar bear-sponsor and now I’m also considering lending money to kiva.org now that you posted a link about it!

    By the way, I know a very good organization that I think you should check out, it’s called CISV (Children’s International Summer Villages) and here’s a link to it: http://www.cisv.org

    Thank you for being so amazing!

    //Linnea, Sweden

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  250. David Dwight Hayes Says:
    April 30th, 2007 at 2:58 am

    Hmmmm. Maybe I should have concluded with “Live Long and Prosper” since the topic was about suppressed emotions.

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  251. shinefloyd Says:
    April 30th, 2007 at 3:50 pm

    tu entiendes español?
    Speak spanish?
    TE SALUDO DESDE URUGUAY ( THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON)

    Realmente no solo es malo el dinero o la persona, es cuando se unen
    un mal dinero y una mala persona que causan el mal.

    un beso muy afectuoso de un admirador de tu persona.

    luigi alias shinefloyd (the dark side of the moon)

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  252. Flávia Saddy Says:
    April 30th, 2007 at 8:58 pm

    Hi allison!!!

    I’m from Brazil!!!

    I’m your dubber here!!!!

    I love you work!!!

    Do you have curiosity to see you with another voice??

    kisses from brazilan Chloe!!!!!!

    sorry for my english!!!!

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  253. john evans Says:
    May 9th, 2007 at 3:44 pm

    Money is not the root of all evil, the love of money above all else in this life is… many don’t seem to get this one…

    anyways, i love your work on smallville, and by the way i was wanting Chloe and Clark to at least give it a try from the beginning…

    thanks, and my God bless,
    john

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  254. Devdatta Says:
    May 17th, 2007 at 11:22 pm

    Hi there Allison,
    this is the first time i have come to this site and its really very good..i liked it very much.I have been a fan of yours for a long time but never felt of ctually writting to u cause all the websites are all filled up with pics and doesnt say much about the person.But this website is really awesome!Keep up the good work.
    About the topic,its really great that u have taken ur time to look into grameen banking in bangladesh,actually iam from india,and my State is bodering bangladesh.Iam from a city called “calcutta”,u must have heard about it…i mean the book and the movie..”The city of Joy”..and also because of mother teresa.Well i have been to Bnagladesh myself…as my family is from that country originally but we had to come away as it seperated from India and also because of the Hindu and Muslim riots.The grameen bank has done wonders for the very very poor people of Bangladesh because at least 60 to 70 percent of the peopel in Bangladesh dont have electricity in their homes and maximum people live below the poverty line..and for them 50rupees is a lot of money!!!…the fact is the price of products is more then what a man earns in that country…and above that u have taxes to account for…the poor remain poor and the rich become more and more rich.Bangladesh is a muslim country,and the hindus or other religion people in that country are always treated in a bad way…women and children are raped,from other religions the cause being their husbands couldnt pay up!…and no police file is ever recorded…so for these poor people who used to bank on these other people for loans are now actually being saved by this bank!…at least some of them are iam sure.The scene down here allison is very different from he scene which is being presented in the west….every single day hundreds of people are coming to India for shelter either legally or illegally!…yes micro financing is really amazing and has helped a lot many poor ..i mean very poor people…but at times these poor people or women when they try starting a business of their own,either these local goons come and destroy everything they have worked for and automatically the women is stuck with the bank for clearence of the loan eternally cause paying up a loan of 200 dollars which at least in indian money means 10,000 rupees and in bangladesh it must mean more!….so if grameen bank wants to help people which it has done worldwide,then it should also know that by helping them with money will not stop them from dangers which are lurking in the dark,because iam sure…even though iam guessing…but in a way even when most of these women take m,oney home to start a busniess their husbands take it away for gambling or beat these women up or the local gang members come and take this money away ….so these things go unoticed….but conditions in bangladesh have improved now …people in villages ahave cell phones..and prosperity is in the air…but with these few problems i mentioned.
    Iam sorry,i just went off track for most of it…but i did want to speak out for these problems which go unoticed…i mean trust me..the govt. of Bangladesh dont care so much as this man has cared for these people!
    Well,i havent read some of ur blogs yet,but i would liek to add few comments again..hehe and they wont be so long!i wish u all the luck in ur movie and television carrer,ur a really great actor…i wish u and clark kent become one!u both are just made for each other..hahaha..but as we all know the story of lois becoming his one and only,where does ur character go later on?i really wonder!
    Take care of yourself and God bless u always
    yours truly
    dev

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  255. Josh Says:
    May 18th, 2007 at 12:49 pm

    Hi Allison,

    I just found your blog through someone’s comment on a myspace page, and after reading this one, I’m looking forward to perusing through some of your older entries.

    I’m sure somewhere in all these comments, someone has told you this, but just in case… The quote you start with is incomplete. The it’s actually, “The love of money is the root of all evil.” I know, its knit-picky, but it does lead back to your point about blaming an inanimate object for all our problems.

    On a completely unrelated subject… I’m really hoping that Chloe doesn’t die. She’s my favorite character on the show.

    Enjoy your travels over the summer. I hope to see your beautiful smile light up our TVs in the fall.

    Josh

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  256. Mandy Says:
    June 5th, 2007 at 3:00 pm

    Since first reading this blog post, I’ve been increasingly intrigued by the whole microfinancing movement. And even as you travel around the world, I thought I’d let you in on some of the wonderful publicity this movement is receiving.

    Just this evening on the ABC News, there was a piece on Kiva, focusing on the people who are lenders for people particularly in Iraq. It was a very nice piece about how people can help out from the comfort of their own living rooms.

    And last Saturday, I attended the commencement ceremonies of my alma mater, Knox College in Galesburg, IL. One of the people receiving an honorary degree was Janet McKinley, who is involved in OxFam, a firm that fully embraces microfinancing. And our commencement speaker, President Bill Clinton, praised Ms. McKinley for her work, as well as Muhammad Yunus, the man you mentioned in your blog. This is clearly a movement that is gaining momentum throughout the country, and is quickly becoming one that I endorse wholeheartedly.

    I would like to thank you, Allison. I had not heard of microfinancing and Kiva until I read it on your blog. Thank you for doing your part and spreading the word and having faith in the power of your fans.

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  257. troie Says:
    June 15th, 2007 at 6:06 am

    i’am really impressed!!

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  258. francisco Says:
    June 17th, 2007 at 11:43 am

    hola

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  259. Samantha Says:
    June 21st, 2007 at 7:28 am

    I am so glad you have a link to the Natalie Portman interview on the view! That is the first interview I saw about Micro-financing. When I was younger I traveled to Japan and China as my first big trip outside the United States. We spent two weeks roaming the local area’s and the memories and faces I saw then still are in my brain today. I saw a lot of poverty. For miles and miles. A few years later I went to college and that is when it really hit me. How lucky I was to be given such a future. My family was their for me and gave me that chance. I recently went to mexico and that same feeling of wanting to help others that were not so lucky but still not handing them something in a way that would just continue the cycle. Then I saw the Natalie Portman interview and I called all my friends and family about the program. I am a huge fan of smallville! Read that you had a blog and I am so excited about the topics you have chosen to talk about.

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  260. David Marriott Says:
    June 25th, 2007 at 6:20 am

    It should be noted that the orginal quote from the Bible (1 Timothy 6:10) is: “The love of money is the root of all evil.” Money is simply a means of exchange, which, like any tool that human have created, can be used for good or evil. The choice is ours. However, when people choose to value money above friends, family or community, it invariably leads to evil consequences.

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  261. AaronC Says:
    June 28th, 2007 at 12:00 pm

    Yes it is a misquote…. It is indeed the LOVE of money.
    And I think the Smallville Episode Lexmas where Lex Luthor has a sort of a Christmas Carol like experience illustrates it pretty well.

    Ebenezer Scrooge after his experience became a giver and no longer worshipped money, but instead considered his relationships with other more important.

    Lex on the other got it twisted, and figured that Money brings power so therefore, if he doesn’t have the money he would lose his the people that he loved because he wouldn’t be able to afford what the needed, but I think what Lex forgot is there a power greater then money…..love. But unfortunately he wasn’t raised by the Kents so……..

    But, yeah, there is nothing wrong with having money as long as you have the heart of a giver, and Allison, I believe you have a such a heart.

    As for Microfinancing. I think that it was wonderful idea, and kudos to whoever invented it.

    And maybe next seasons finale of Smallville (You will be there, right?) you’ll be able to kiss both Tom Welling, AND Aaron Ashmore, and a have a whole bag full of McMuffins. LOL

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  262. Ana Says:
    July 24th, 2007 at 9:41 am

    Hello Allison!

    How are you?!

    I’m brazilian and I live in Brazil. I love Smallville and actors and actresses. (I love you too!).Sorry, but I don’t speak English very well. Well, I started watching Smallville because of Tom Welling (oh, he’s so beautiful), but I liked and I am a big fan of this serie and a big fan of this actores and this actrisses! I adore you! You are a excelente actriss…I love Chloe. She’s nice, intelligent, a excelent friend…I can’t belive I am writting to you this message. You’re a idol, Allison…
    I’m devoted to you, I am devoted to Tom Welling (I love him so much), I am devoted to Smallville, Erica Durance, Michael Rosembaun, Kristin Kreuk, John Schneider, Annette, John Glover, Sam Jones, Jensen Ackles, Justin Hartley…

    Allison, your ideas are amazing…I’m waiting anxiously for season 7 of Smallville and I hope Chloe didn’t die, because she’s so important for the serie!!!!

    This music (Dance me to the end of love) is so amazing. You have a good taste.

    Sorry for the English!

    Kisses!

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  263. alexander Says:
    August 3rd, 2007 at 11:28 pm

    HELLO ALISON MY NAME ALEXANDER(SASHA)/ I FROM RUSSIA(REPUBLICK YAKUTIA)
    I CONGRADULATION HAPPY BIRTHDAY

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  264. kimberlyy. Says:
    October 17th, 2007 at 11:58 am

    Heyyy Allison,

    I’m writing this of course, in the infamous New York City. I l-l-loovee your blogs, girllll.
    they are just so refreshing & a boost of engergy. I have a question for youu, where did
    you go to highschool?!!! `cause my friend claims he goes to your school. haha!
    justt wannt to prove him wrong for a change. OHOMG, where do you like to shop att?!
    your clothes are gorgeous, dahling. well, i’ll look forward to seeing Smallville this week.

    welll, byee for now.
    we’ll alll be jealous, as you travel the world.

    Your Fan,

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  265. Omar Says:
    October 29th, 2007 at 10:00 pm

    I really like what you wrote here Allison. Reminds me of Francisco d’Anconia’s speech about the importance of money in the book Atlas Shrugged. So I have to ask, are you a fan of Ayn Rand. I am and after reading your essay there it seems as if you are or would be if you read her book.

    Either way, I liked what you wrote. Having just discovered your site here I’m glad to see you are not a vacuous airhead, there’s an actual analytical mind working in there.

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  266. lucy and mikky Says:
    November 3rd, 2007 at 1:52 pm

    hi, allison,are you ok?
    Has kristin kreuk or erica durance a blog?
    kissessssssssssssssssssssss

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  267. Beth James Says:
    January 25th, 2008 at 4:42 pm

    Okay, the Smallville lover witihin me has no choice but to kick in, but it’s your fault. You brought it up.
    I must tell you, now, that that kiss is without a doubt my favorite kiss form the entire series.
    Mostly because 1) It was Chloe and Clark, finally and 2) There were no freaking “personality-altering” or “forget this ever happened” side-effects.

    Thank yuh, thank yuh very much.
    (Not sure why I chose the Elvis expression. That’s a new one for me, even if I am from Memphis…)

    In the past, I’ve had a few of the same thoughts on money and its place in our lives. I was reading the Odyssey and I came to the point in the story when Odysseus and his crew arrived at the island of the Cyclopes, and they welcomed themselves to the Cyclopes’ lives, eating their food and using their resting area.
    I was required to do some research for a class and discovered that it was customary for guests to take whatever from the kitchen it was their hearts desired. (That and to rape certain women who host there, but we won’t get into that)
    This newfound information sent me into a deep brain freeze of what money really is to us, what we would be doing without it, and what would happen if we all just stopped using it and simply gave to life what we had to give and took from it what we desire.
    (I’m not sure if you know what I mean by deep brain freeze. I am a big thinker. If I get into something extremely philosophical and confusing, a million questions, ideas, thoughts, motivational thoughts, and points on life come rushing in at me. Then I tend to get scared because 90% of those questions, ideas, and thoughts somehow relate to “What are we really doing here?” and “Have I been spending my meaningless existence doing things that will have me set for the rest of eternity?”. In fact there’s a very good chance I’m on the verge of that right now. When I get close I have a tendency to talk to much and want to say a lot of different things at once.(Wow, way off topic from the whole money ordeal, aren’t I?))

    If the world were to, by some miracle that I’m almost positive will never happen, agree with each other that we each give to each other what it is we know we can give and we can give well, and we do that, and we take what we need and want at a fair share, would we be happier?

    o__O

    Thanks for the thoughts.
    :D D

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  268. Mesha Says:
    May 2nd, 2008 at 10:39 am

    Hey Allison!

    This is the 1st time I came here, and I must say, I LOVE this site. It’s so warm and welcoming. Reading your blog entries makes me feel like I’m listening to an old friend. You have a wonderful, warm nature, and that makes you an even more beautiful person.

    That being said, I was pleasantly surprised when I came across the words “microfinancing” and the name “Muhammad Yunus” here. You see, I’m from Bangladesh, and we Bangladeshis have had been unfortunate enough to be identified as Indians most of the time. When most foreign people hear that I’m from Bangladesh, the 1st thing they ask is “oh, is that a part of India?” And then I have to explain the whole thing about Bangladesh being an independent country since 1971 to them. So you can imagine why I was sort of taken aback to see that you had actually written about Bangladesh. You, Allison Mack. Wow. I guess it’s thanks to Dr. Yunus for sort of putting us on the map.

    Hmmm… this is a pretty old entry in your blog, so I don’t know if you will actually get to read this. But anyway, I just wanted to let you know that you have fans even here in Bangladesh. So keep up the good work.

    Oh, and thank you for inspiring me. I am in awe of the way you write. It has inspired me to write my own feelings down. So thank you.

    Love,
    Moutushi

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  269. Suzy Keating Says:
    May 8th, 2008 at 4:23 pm

    Hey Allison,

    ” Whatever you do may seem insignificant but it is very important that you do it” Mahatma Gahndi…you are right he is brillliant.
    I think that you and Ms Kreuk are a dynamic duo.You’ve both invested a lot of time and energy into making the world a better place. You both are an incredible inspiration to millions of people, and you serve as strong role models to many young women.

    As Mother Theresa says we as a race should practice “Love in Action”
    Compassion, alturism, empathy, those are central tenants which
    many of the greatest spiritual leaders have taught us. They have encouraged usto rise above our fears, doubts, insecurities and self centerdnessand attain a higher level of conciousness and understanding that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves. That is our greatest journey.

    I filled out your online survey this morning and I must confess something.
    I’m not currently a grad student, However I will be studying Religious Studies at a liberal arts college..I recieved my undergrauate degree in Photojournalism…My education has always been significant to me,
    But I struggled a lot to get through. I had a severe learning disability and seizure disorder..And shortly after I graduated from college..I had a Psychotic episode, and was eventually diagnosed with schizophrenia.
    I’m psychosis and seizures are fairly controlled by medication. I just wanted to address the fact that young people do face similar adversity in college and somehow, with a lot of support, they can pull through..The more a person is passionate about their education, the more they are willing to sacrifice. For me it was partying a(but not drinking) I had to dial down on a great deal.I had to work very hard…

    I am a huge smallville fan I own every season 1-6, that is.I love to watch the different dimensions of the characters develop through out the seasons. I even got my dad hooked. He comes over and we’ve plowed through four seasons so far..We’ve just watched Pariah the one where Alicia reveals Clark’s Secret to Chloe..Sometime towards the end of the show, my dad turned to me and said “That Chloe is a great character” .
    I would have to agree…

    Anyway, I look forward to seeing you on thursday nights..I do hope that you’re coming back for the eighth season..

    Your faithful fan,

    Suzy

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