Walking gently through this world

I like to think that I can do this by being kind and loving to all the other living creatures that coexist with me. Being mindful of my words and actions and how they affect others.  Remembering that I do not live in a vacuum and everything I do, or don’t do, touches the lives others. My self-care does not need to come at the sacrifice of others. I tend to think of the long term effects of my actions. I often weigh the cost versus the benefits of any action I take. I know I am not perfect at this, nor do I have all the answers.

My focus here is about how my steps affect the physical world around me. How does each decision I make contribute to the problems that seem to be multiplying moment by moment. I have learned to make certain choices about my consumption habits, and I value the living circle of all the things I interact with.

When an item I own is not working optimally, I first try to fix it. I repair, mend, refashion, re-configure when I can. Up-cycling is fun for me! I make sure to care for the things I purchase so they last longer. I purchase the best quality I can afford with the intention that it lasts a long time. If I no longer need an item, I pass it on in one way or another. Sometimes I break things down into separate components for other uses. I recycle, or compost and then trash things as a last resort.

This cycle is seen in the way I handle my textile use, but also in my every day purchases like grocery shopping. It is just me and my husband, and although we are near retirement, we both still work full time jobs. All the children are grown and on their own. We choose to spend money on healthy, pesticide free, food. We shop local first. We do not eat a lot of prepared foods. If we buy packaged food, we consider what it is packaged in and that affects our purchasing decisions. We choose things we can compost first, recycle second.

My way is not perfect, it just works for me and I came to it through trial and error. And it will change as time passes. I know that there is a bit of privilege in the way I do things, based on my life. In some ways I am better off than others, and yet in some ways, I am not. I do what I can in a way that works for me. You can do the same. I am sharing my experiences and some possibilities, take what you want and leave the rest.

I have found that when I live by my principles, everything goes smoother. I am less stressed. I want to do no harm, whatever that might mean. I walk gently so my footsteps do not destroy. My footprints are strategically placed so others can follow if they choose. If I can help someone else learn how to incorporate that into their lives, I consider it a bonus.