I recently participated in the Shasta Commons monthly Trader's Co-op. At first, I felt reluctant to attend, uncertain if my items were good enough and how uncomfortable it would be to refuse a trade. Would they say yes? How would I say no? What is it worth?

I was tempted to avoid these emotions and not even go to Trader's Co-op. I had too much in my life already to add one more thing. So it took me many, many months to attend.

When I finally did show up, I was pleasantly surprised to find folks, like me, figuring it out. There were so many items for trade, and a willingness to rediscover this lost art.

Trading makes us re-think our present day valuation system where we often base price on "market" value. This approach can create great imbalance between two items and prohibit trade. For example, consider a homemade item valued at the mass produced commercial price. Is it equal to something made with fresh, local ingredients, shared with a smile and maybe even a story? This is for each trader to decide and for the producer to honor.

I propose we begin valuation based on need satisfaction rather than market value. Through trading, I am learning to honor myself and my efforts. I have experienced that when I honestly communicate and share my perspective on the trade, both parties learn and individual needs determine the value. This value is unique for every person.

The safe, friendly environment of the Trader's Co-op also inspired me to become creative. I had brought knitted hats and wanted a gorgeous scarf. I thought I would be refused if I offered the hats, so I talked to the gal about my homemade salves and she happily traded. The next day, I dropped off the salve feeling so fulfilled in the trade and with myself for speaking my truth!

The reward of trading is more than acquiring items; it is a community experience. It is exchange where, if approached in honesty and honor for self and the other, everyone gains!

At the co-op my daughter wanted apple cider but was shy and hesitated. Finally she approached the vendor for his last bottle. He was delighted to find a lovely hat for his grandson, and expressed one bottle was not enough for what he received. He told her "I feel I owe you one more. Next Trader's Co-op I will bring you another." Everyone was full-filled.

Not every single trade will be exact, and there must be conversation to reach that balanced place. With an open heart, and willingness we can reach satisfaction. Sometimes, though, we won't and we will need to say no.

Most importantly we made great friends, felt honored for our skills, and the lovely items we brought home felt like a bonus. My daughter just loved it so much, she came home saying: "I can't wait to go back next month. I wonder what I will make to trade!"

Are you a baker, knitter, accountant, gardener, artist, babysitter, have extra seeds, make teas, grow veggies, make cards, take photos, needle felt, make sprouts? The possibilities are endless and the more people show up, the more fun it gets. I hope to see you there and enjoy together the Art of Trading.

ditors Note: Trader's Co-op is a free Shasta Commons event held on the 1st Sunday of each month. Come Sunday, Feb. 5 to SOL Café 414 N. MS Blvd. (former Stage Door) 1-3pm. For more info contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it