Sustainability can be overwhelming. But as I have said before it's all about small steps. You learn to crawl before you walk, and walk before you run.
Being more sustainable may seem just like I list of things to give up. And sure you do give up things, but you gain so much more.
A good example is tonight. I hurt my ankle and so I didn't really want to stand to cook so I pulled a meal I cooked last week out of the freezer. It's homemade and organic but quick since it's pre-made. I was able to have quick food without spending more money, producing more waste or putting food full of chemicals in our bodies.
Yes this means once a month or so I spend all day in the kitchen but really it can be fun. I love the thought of making homemade food for us to eat. The house smells wonderful and since I do a lot at once it's less clean up later.
I have found in using less I'm learning to enjoy little things more. My husband and I play card games almost every night. This is a simple thing that brings a lot of joy in my life. I also have learned to crochet, which is so relaxing. I love being able to make something useful from just a ball of yarn.
Many changes have made life easier, like reusable bags. No more broken bags spill food everywhere, no more trying to find places to put the plastic bags. Now that it is a habit to use them I hardly forget them.
American life has been come wasteful and stressful. The most commonly prescribed medicine is anti-depressants. I think the two are connected. We think we are making ourselves happy with all this stuff but the studies and drugs tell a different story. We are always in a mood of want.
What if we slowed down and learned to be happy with what we have? Do you think you could learn to be happy and someday happier with less?
This is my post for the APLS Carnival "Sustainable Living and You." Check back November 18th for a link to the rest of the Carnival.
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4 comments:
Wow, I'd never thought of what a vicious cycle consumption can be in those terms. But there is much to be said how ownership does add to stress and protective instincts that combat cooperation and community. (See John Steinbeck: Grapes of Wrath for more eloquent writing on the subject.) I am STILL downsizing and every day find more joy in the process.
Very interesting post! I love how you say that it starts with little steps. Working at Zwaggle has helped me realize that little things go a long way, all without pain or too much extra effort! Thanks for the great post!
Excellent points!
Thanks for participating in this month's APLS carnival!
I completely agree that much of the stuff Americans buy does nothing to increase their happiness. Focusing on what makes us happy in the long-term has curbed 75% of our purchases, leaving us money to spend a little more on the remaining 25% to purchase organic food and non-toxic items.
Hope your ankle is fully healed!
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