Ugh.

Don’t get me wrong.  I’m a recycler by nature.  Not only am I a firm believer in treating the world well and thus being treated well in return, I’m resourceful.  My mom is extremely resourceful.  I used to think she was just plain cheap.  (But maybe that’s a story for another time.)

Anyway, I use both sides of all pieces of paper then put them in the recycle bin, separate from the cardboard, and separate from the plastics.  I reuse bags and try to bring my own canvas bags to the store, although I almost always forget.  I collapse tissue boxes and put them separate from the paper, separate from the plastics.  I try to never use aerosol cans.  I bring home my empty soda cans and water bottles from work.  I try to drink from the tap so that I don’t produce empty water bottles or pollute my body with carbonated sugary drinks.  I shop second hand and when tee shirts are finally at the point of no return, they get cut up for rags.  I try to never use paper towels.  I even have a habit of wiping my hands on dishtowels rather than use napkins – although this results in the increase of laundry and thus more consumption of water.  Hmmm…is this resourceful?

But – recycling is hard!  It’s come to the point where I contemplate for a good few minutes before disposing of anything.  (See how I got lost in thought about whether it was less wasteful to use a napkin or have to generate more laundry???)  Sometimes I just want to throw out my water bottle!  Sometimes I can’t think of a good reason to hold onto these plastic bags but have immense guilt over the idea of sticking them in the trash can.  I own more McDonald’s straws than I know what to do with.  (They are good waaay beyond one use!)  When does environmental consciousness become insanity?

Recently I was contemplating a move in with sister.  She sat me down.  She looked me square in the face.  This is what she said:

“I recycle.  In my kitchen I have a garbage can.  Next to it is a separate bin for cardboard.  And right out the back door there is the bin for plastics, tin, and glass.  But I am not crazy.  You are not allowed to be crazy in my house.  Some things just get thrown out.  Got it?”

Great.  Now my own crazy family thinks I’m crazy.  Sigh…I’d write more on the subject, but I have to go figure out what to do with all this extra packaging that’s laying around from my last four Amazon orders.  Suggestions anyone?

Wishing on a star,

LonesomeBrown