The business section of today's (Jan. 8) Minneapolis Star Tribune poses this interesting question in its article about Minnesotans signing the Compact.

Begun in San Francisco, the Compact encourages people to go one year without buying anything new. The Tribune calls in a growing social movement and poses some interesting questions about our commercialized lifestyles. (See the Tribune's article, "A pledge to go a year without buying anything new," at www.startribune.com/business/13513951.html.)

I've heard of the Compact before and have to admit I thought the people were crazy. While a few essentials - food, underwear, toiletries - are permitted, it's hard to imagine living a year without big box store shopping. While I admire those willing to try it and believe everyone can take away from the idea important lessons on living more simply, I don't think I'd be interested in signing the Compact. Though I don't buy much stuff now, I like to know that I can.

What do you think about the Compact? Would you be willing to give it a try - why or why not?