Living among the eco-unconscious is not easy. In fact, sometimes I believe that it's going to be the very thing that destroys me. I find this quote by Mahatma Gandhi to be something to hang on to in daily life, "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win."
I am accused of living in my own little world, a "bubble" that most would refer to as crazy. I am often mocked for not being able to "just enjoy life." The irony is that I have never enjoyed life more. I appreciate everything more than ever. I am now more connected to my food and all of my purchases.
Everything tastes better and looks better. I feel great, and don't worry as much about what I can't control, because there are so many things that I can control. I am acing that part of life and learning how to do better every day from other passionate people who are grounded and determined to make a difference. I know that has to be better than floating around in a bubble.
I wonder how people can drink bottled water with all of the information (and scientific proof) about how awful it is for us and our world. Even though most people have read, seen or heard that most of the foods on supermarket shelves contain visible and hidden ingredients that are probable health hazards, they still get purchased by the cart load. Isn't it reckless behaviour when schools are cleaned with toxic chemicals, when safe and effective options are so readily and affordably available? We eco-freaks are not the ones in the bubble, we are not insulating ourselves and hiding from the issues that we need to face. We are open to learning, admitting our mistakes and are committed to doing better. Together.
Stop ignoring. Stop laughing. Stop fighting. You can join the winning team when you want, at whatever pace and strength you can. Embrace change and don't worry about what you haven't done right, worry about your next choice -- and making good ones. Because, when we win, it'll be much more fun to celebrate all together.
Most who are trying to deliver a new perspective, or encourage positive, healthier change, are not doing it for themselves, they are doing it for everyone. Nothing is more upsetting than getting bullied or mocked and having to stand alone amongst our peers. Our children deserve and need a kinder, gentler, and greener planet to grow up on, and it's up to all of us to give it to them. We need to empower our children to take action when they or their precious planet are being bullied.
I will continue to live outside of the bubble. I don't want to ever block everything out around me because there is so much goodness out there and a healthier life and a hopeful future is what I'm striving for. The real wins are not the personal wins for me, they are the wins for ALL of us. I adore the people that I have met and continue to connect with who work everyday for everyone, and I thank them for their friendship, support and for inspiring me constantly.
For those of you who think I'm crazy -- I'm good with that. Because I'm sure that you mean that I'm crazy about my family and my world. Which I am. Certifiably.