History tends to record the courage of men in battle, and to neglect the daily courage of women around the world who have chosen, in the face of all kinds of adversity, to nurture and sustain and grow life more abundant.
What is a daily, common act of courageous life-building for you?
Perhaps this situation doesn’t present itself daily for me, but I try to give words of encouragement and hope to those younger friends and acquaintances who appear to be in crisis. Although during my life I certainly haven’t experienced some of the problems they face, I have some background with solving life problems. Trying to not be “preachy-teachy”, I offer comments that may allow them to “chew on” thoughts and perhaps help them solve a problem they may have.
I’m trying to make my consumption habits sustainable and life-affirming.
I buy (mostly) organic produce, I look for meat that’s raised without hormones or antibiotics, and I choose fish that is sustainably harvested. I choose foods without problematic ingredients like MSG, preservatives, and additives, to properly nourish my little family (and also to avoid the headaches bad ingredients would trigger).
I sign up for a CSA farm share and eat that locally grown organic produce for nearly half the year. I patronize my friend’s bakery because his bread is delicious, it’s all wholesome natural ingredients, and it helps the local economy. I patronize locally owned independent restaurants, even though they tend to cost more than chains, because they are committed to sourcing ingredients locally and they treat and pay their staff well. I try to cook supper from scratch most of the week, though I am tempted to rely on convenience foods.
I stopped using fragranced products as much as possible for my body and my home. I use cotton flannel menstrual pads which are super comfortable, come in cute designs, and get washed instead of discarded. I compost (except in winter). I use handkerchiefs instead of tissues. I bring my own bags (most of the time) or refuse bags when I haven’t bought much. I ride the bus.
I’m just trying to be more aware of the impact my choices as a consumer make, even though it’s not always the cheapest or easiest way to go.
Maggie, I certainly admire you for being so consistent in trying your best to (1) Recycle, (2) Reuse and (R…?) (can’t remember the big 3!! It is something I try to do but there are times when I back slide. You are an inspiration to me.
Reduce, reuse, and recycle 🙂
Martin, thanks for the fill-in of the third “R”. I try that too but in some cases I just save and don’t reuse. I’ll have to remember that.
Oops! I really made a mistake there…it’s REDUCE I need to remember. That’s true certainly; I’ll work on it.