As a Homeopathic Doctor, mother, and individual who considers herself somewhat of a naturalist, I have had the benefit of studying much about nature and natural law. I have always been curious and respectful of the awesome force of nature as well as its beauty and fragility. It is the law of nature to find and maintain a sense of balance.
My knowledge has brought me to a point that I am able to understand not only the suffering of people but also the suffering of our global environment. While it might sound cliché and overly sentimental, I believe that balance and living well requires a healthy sense of self-responsibility and compassion for others. Our sense of responsibility and compassion must extend beyond ourselves to encompass our community–our families, friends and acquaintances,–he communities of others and the natural environment.
As a race we foolishly believe that we can control nature without much thought about the future impact of our actions. We are now at a point that, if we continue on this path, we will destroy our environment, which we depend on for our very survival. We are not separate from our environment. We are connected to our environment, a part of our environment, and our symbiotic relationship with nature is threatened. We have no one to blame but ourselves.
So, what can we do as individuals to address the situation? The answer is—a lot! We tend to look to governments, manufacturers and corporations to reverse this cycle and indeed, they do play a large role. But, as individuals, we can no longer wait for organizations to act when their actions are driven by the interest of stakeholders for the sole purpose of generating profit. There is much we can do:
- Buy organic foods and products and support local farming operations. Organic producers not only use less pesticides and chemicals but, more importantly, their practices are better for the soil and the environment. If finances are an issue, do what you can. Perhaps you can focus on buying some organic produce or perhaps you could use organic body care products. Do your homework. Ensure that an organic product is indeed organic.
- Use simple, biodegradable products to clean your home. Do not use pesticides on your lawn. Buy recycled paper products. Avoid plastic as much as possible. It does not break down. Plastic also leaches chemicals into the soil as well as foods that are stored in it. The chemicals are subsequently ingested.
- Consider using organic body products for your skin and hair. We are battling pollutants in our air, water and food and using organic body products will help lessen the biophysiological load on our bodies. Many local health food stores carry a variety of products that are competitively priced.
- Review your energy consumption in your home and with your vehicle. Look at options that will allow you to consume less energy and produce less pollution. Recycle whenever possible.
- Look at ways to enhance your immediate environment. Plant trees on your property, compost your waste, grow your own garden or join a community garden project.
- Speak up! Write letters, send e-mails and voice your opinion regarding issues that matter to you. Refuse to buy from producers who employ unethical practices.
- Share your knowledge and experiences with others. Some of our greatest actions are born from the advice and knowledge of others.
Links:
Peterborough Greenup & Organic Growers
Vegetarian Restaurants in Peterborough
Organic Body Products
