Last year I started recycling.
I thought I was doing well when I noticed that my trash each week amounted to 1 bag.
This year I started composting.
Today I am aware that my efforts are minimal. Yes, it is good that I am throwing away less stuff. Yes, it is good that I am trying to make some of my food scraps into good soil. Heaven knows my sandy yard and garden could use more good soil. But, I am becoming aware of how little my life has changed and how much more I could do.
I have excuses for continuing to use my cleaning and storage products. First, I am used to them and know they work. Second, I like them. Third, I don’t trust unknown products which cost more. Fourth…well, none of these are really good reasons.
I came across a web page that had a subscription for new earth friendly products for only $11 a month. It provided a way to try new products a little at a time. The idea is that living simply is akin to living well with the environment and with our own well-being.
I recently chose and went to a new dentist; I left that office pleased with my choice and feeling great. You see, this was a decision I made after 4 years of no dental care. It was a decision to take better care of myself. And, I got a clean bill of health!
What does not have to do with recycling? Well, recycling is the start of caring for the earth. Good health is the start of caring for the body. It is all related to being a better caretaker of what I have been given.
I think I will look for new ways to add to the small things I am doing…to keep making my care of myself and the earth better. I like the idea of slowly but surely making the changes. Maybe I can give up the paper towels or look for some not made from trees. Maybe I can start slowly eliminating more plastic from my life. (I have already been working on refusing straws with my fast food drinks.)
Maybe my small corner of the world can improve…and me along with it.
Feathers of My Mind 