We Amuse Myself

Yeah, the video's a little one-sided, but since it's geared partial towards children it kind of has to be. I actually found out about the video while reading an article (which I could not find again later...) about how teachers are using it as a resource to supplement out-of-date textbooks and encourage discussion on the environment. Apparently a dad sued one of the schools that showed this video because it was one-sided and didn't show the benefits of capitalism. Okay, I get that. But kids see the benefits of capitalism every day. Videos like this are important because it helps to show kids (and adults who maybe don't think about this kind of stuff as much as they should) that there's a downside to our lifestyle that we have to take into consideration.

Now, I was raised right, in terms of environmental awareness. My grandmothers are both gardeners. My parents have composted all my life. My one grandma has what we call a 'depression era mentality' in that she never throws anything out (it's kind of a problem actually... but my point is, my family is frugle). My dad uses worm poop to fertilize our vegetable garden and luckily we live near farms so in the summer we buy our veggies locally. And both my parents bike to work whenever possible. Oh yeah, did I mention my mom lives in a tent - very minimal environmental impact there.

So I kind of thought things like recycling and composting and not throwing stuff out when it's still perfectly good was pretty much a give-in. Of course you should do that: saves money, saves the environment. But since coming to college, I've realized that's not the case. Some people in particular are EXTREMELY wasteful to the point where it's just kind of ridiculous and it's almost as if they're wasting on purpose. (I mean seriously, is it necessary to leave the kitchen light on, both living rooms lights on, the pantry light on and the TV on when you leave to go to your 50+ minute class? Seriously.) 

That said, I think it's really important kids learn about all aspects of capitalism and consumerism. Yes, there are a lot of benefits (YAY! STUFF!). But we need to be responsible with our capitalism and I've come to realize that responsiblity doesn't come naturally to a lot of people (and not just environmental responsibility). Cleaning up after ourselves is a mindset that we have to learn and also understand before it becomes as natural to us as consuming. 

Okay, I'm done preaching. So have you guys heard about the kid who got suspended for going to his girlfriend's prom? Crazy, right?

PS Buy worm poop. And compost. I know you guys are lazy about that.