Monday, April 15, 2013

MYOB

Monday April 22nd is "Earth Day." This annual celebration originated in 1970 with intentions to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's natural environment through demonstrations and events. Currently, over 192 countries world-wide celebrate being "green" on this day.  This one day is a great reminder for the remaining 364 days to MYOB (mind your own business). I'm sure you are wondering how the childhood phrase "mind your own business" applies to Earth Day.  I believe being "green" is a Godly principle and He made it our business to maintain it. In Genesis God created the Earth and called it "very good." He created man and woman, He blessed them and commanded them to manage their new home called Earth."And God said unto them, be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth." (Gen 1:28)  If you read a little further in Genesis 2:15 it says, "The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it."  

From the beginning of mankind God gave us the Earth to live in, work in and maintain. Just like any "very good" business its managers have the control to work and maintain it in order to carry out the operational responsibilities of the business.  We have that same power and responsibility for our green Earth. Contrary to Kermit the Frog's song, "It's Not Easy Being Green," it's actually quite simple. Here are some ways to MYOB :) If you're new to being "green" start with one or two :)



*Have recycle bin in your home 
*Repurpose, Repurpose, Repurpose
*Avoid purchasing plastic. (buy glass, wood, or stainless steel)
*Ask for paper instead of plastic at the grocery store
*Use reusable snack packs instead of plastic zip lock bags (great $ saver)
*Shop at consignment stores for kids toys & donate your kids toys
*Stop buying bottled water; get a water bottle (great $ saver) 
*Unplug electrical appliances when not in use  (great $ saver)
*Avoid things that require batteries 
*Avoid synthetic fibers
*One night a week start a "no electronics night." (great for family time)
*Go outside and enjoy nature!!