I’ve gotta ask — again (sorry)

The Mex Files is a weird sort of beast. In theory, a Mexican-based blog written in English, the Mex Files is able to focus on Mexico and Mexican culture, politics, history and lifestyles, but that creates a problem. It doesn’t fall easily into any particular niche, nor is it formally part of any blogger community. Not being written by Latinos, it’s not a Latino blog; not being focused on U.S. politics, it’s not a progressive blog.

The only “community” that the Mex Files can turn for to support is its own regulars (though outside assistance is welcome).

Last time I asked for money, I tried being “cute”, and low key. Others were raising money at the same time, and I figured my needs weren’t quite as pressing — at least I’m single and could get away with ignoring things I shouldn’t (like my health) for a few months. And, with some income from free-lancing for local newspapers, I had SOMETHING coming in.

The free-lancing has pretty much dried up, trying to get a commercial site up and running is “on-hold” while I take care of immediate needs and call me a sucker, but when you live in a small community, you are obliged to help your neighbors.

Unfortunately, the neighbor stuck me with bad checks (I’d get her groceries and whatnot for her) which caused my checks to bounce (and run up charges). The neighbor is apparently incompetent, and there is no way to collect, though her family — after some misunderstanding — paid back some of the funds.

Last time I asked, several generous people responded. Thanks so far this time to Thomas, David, Adrian and Jonathan for kick-starting things over the weekend, but having gotten by this long by making minimum payments, the late fees and bills are still overwhelming .
My debts are around $1500, and, while I’ve been getting by (not well) on less than I should, I can get by on about $1000 a month. If the regulars ponied up about $30 a year, that would cover everything. I know some people can’t and understand… but, hey, folks think I’m a commie anyway, so “from each according to his ability…”

You can click the “paypal” button if you have a credit card and are donating with U.S. dollars. Or you can write me (“richmx2-AT-excite-DOT-com” with MEX FILES in the subject line for a mailing address and check information.