In the context of today’s world, ‘consuming’ and ‘balance’ in the same sentence seems to be an oxymoron. Society is in a buying frenzy, only too happy to either consciously or subconsciously do what industry and advertising begs: CONSUME!
It’s an everyday ‘all you can eat’ extravaganza at shopping centers around the world. Parking lots at malls resemble a sea of shinny metal ‘fishes’, all lured to the bait of consuming without a fight. Even if they don’t have the means to consume lavishly, most do.
Many cities allow stores and shopping centers to remain open on holidays, to the public’s delight. Some even plan their vacations around shopping. And why not? Everything you could possible need can be bought. And if you can’t seem to think of any needs at the moment, there is much to desire. Perhaps an upgrade would be nice. Or, if a simple household item you have can accomplish many different tasks, think instead of purchasing separate implements for each. Ah, the spirit of consumerism. But it comes with a price, and not just monetary.
Environmentalists now warn that uncontrolled consumption is a key factor in the ecological collapse of our planet. In fact, according to The New Economics Foundation, if everyone on earth consumed at the same rate as those in the United States, it would take 5.3 planet earths to support them! It would take 3.1 for France and Britain, 3.0 for Spain, 2.5 for Germany and Japan.
The message is clear: we are wearing out our welcome, literally. One planet earth simply cannot continue to support its population at current consumption rates forever; nor can it withstand the impact of such consumption. Although recycling is becoming widespread, recycling bins are filling up faster than ever, with people believing them to be a magic solution, forgetting about the energy and costs involved in the process.
Of course some purchases are necessary. And some are fun. Many interesting and trendy businesses are dealing with used items or creating new from the old. The quality of self-reliance can be a wonderful way to cut waste. For example, machines such as reel mowers cut your consumption of gasoline and rely on your own muscles instead. For things around the home, such as a magazine rack or a vase, look in the garage or attic. Tools and some outdated items could afford you a creative little project with the end result being a conversation piece because it doesn’t look like everyone else’s purchased off the shelves of box stores. The spirit of consumerism is not only wasteful, it cheapens what we have. What’s special about an item if there are 100 000 more? For things you no longer want, perhaps someone else would like it. Have a yard sale or ask around at work. If something needs to be replaced, are parts of it salvageable?
Contrary to the option that we’ve grown as a society by constantly seeking ‘more’ of what we desire, balance has always been necessary for life. It’s a concept we can easily contemplate. Sure, those cookies taste good! I’d like another…So good, I could eat another 50. But would that really be good for me? In fact wouldn’t I feel sick if I ate that many?
Many children know the answer to that. Could it be we as adults act with the same lack of self-control in matters of consuming?
Balance should be displayed now more than ever in view of the peril our planet faces.
Perhaps you can afford whatever you want. You feel you deserve it. But is the desire to ‘have’ the motivation? Our decisions have far-reaching implications. Let’s be balanced and consume wisely. We just might avoid something far worse than a tummy ache.
