Back-To-Basics...

I've been thinking a lot about how I occupy my space here on this planet. I know why I'm here, God put me in this planet, specifically in Texas in a day and age where so many luxuries are to be had. Way unlike had I been born in 11th century England as a pauper, literally living off the land - lucky to have a coat or shoes. God specifically wanted me to be born in 1979 and live with my family in Texas today, and I know that.

What I'm talking about is HOW I live and contribute to my tiny corner of the world. Now, this is where my family begins to roll their eyes and think what a "hippie" I truly am...my "world ideology" as they probably think of it. But actually, I have more a 1940's-1950's personnae than a radical '60's view.

What if...

...we began to sew our own clothing again?

...we began growing our own fruit and vegetables in our own backyards, or joined a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) in our area?

...we realized that the 1/4 mile distance to the grocery store was actually better served "walked" than driven?

...we got rid of the 10 TV's per house and actually started acting like "families" rather than "roommates"?

...we valued hand-made fun over "Made in China" mass-produced Martha Stewart hand puppet kits (sorry, we just bought those, that's why I put it down)?

...we played at the park, went on a walk, rode our bikes, etc. instead of "pretending" we are doing those things with video games?

...we bought food that wasn't fast or bought food that wasn't from a box?

...we were truly thoughtful about our purchases to buy as much "American-Made" items as possible?

For as many faults as I see about how we as Americans live, there are so many wonderful things about it as well. We get to CHOOSE how we want to live, more or less. We get to CHOOSE to be more successful or live in a nicer house. We get to CHOOSE where we buy our food from. There are so many places in the world that the people are told how to live, where to live and what they can eat.

I think if we were to make better choices, even small ones, we as a nation could have a hugely (is that a word?) positive impact on our country. So what do you say, let's make good choices together America! Let's take advantage of our ability to be free in our decision-making! Let's not be "robots" to our society any longer and take responsibility for OUR country. Let's loose some of our "fat" and be active members of our society!

Thank you from one June Cleaver hippie to another.