Something Small… and Simple

I’ve adopted a new practice and hopefully, it will be my lifestyle.

It started first week of October upon watching Richard’s docu called Signos. The next day, I had another share over 702 DZAS. And I know I need to do something about this pressing issue. It may not mean a lot, but hopefully, it could lessen the problem especially now that you’re reading this and would later join me with the practice (especially if you’re my kaibigang oso J).

The issue? The ever popular “garbage diarrhea” or the phenomenon of, we, humans, producing tons and tons of garbage everyday! (This will more or less contribute to the social problems that we have-flood, malaria outbreak, etc.)

The practice? It’s saying no to plastic! (With plastic, I mean the real plastic, composed of chemicals which I still have to research and not the literally walking plasticJ). It’s just simple. When you go to market, department store, convenient store, drugstore or any other stores, even fast food chains or whatever establishment you’ll land and you’ll be buying, say, just a pack of your beauty regimen or just a piece of that whatever in your mind, and you have a bag with you, or your pants has pockets, then refuse the plastic the salesperson will be handing you (in a nice way of course).Just place whatever it is that you bought inside your bag or if you want, just bring it with your bare hands. J

Our precious Health Guide, 2001 edition, which I only read when I would do assignments back in school, said that garbage is a major land pollutant. Let me quote, “The indiscriminate disposal of garbage has caused major problems in the cities. Always remember that illnesses are most likely to occur in unsanitary areas…”

I know, you would agree that most of the junks you’ll see around are plastics. May it be yellow, red, blue, and white, with name of the establishment or without the name on it (Plastic is a form of the establishment’s advertisement). It’s just irritating to see plastic everywhere (especially when you know that in one way or another you are contributing to those plastic dumpsites!). Believe me; the salesperson would be happy if you’ll say no to their plastic. The first few attempts I had were funny.

Straight from Southville (commercial break: visit www.southville.edu.ph), I went to this popular drugstore to buy tissue, cotton buds and shampoo. I stopped the man from putting the items I bought inside the plastic, he was shocked but he smiled and the next time I did it, he simply smiled. The other was at a convenient store; I bought three packs of stockings and refused to get the plastic. He didn’t smile but there was something in his eyes like, “oh she’s weird.”

I know, the practice might sound something small (and to some silly) but it’s simple and probably, will mean a lot to Mother Earth. Saying no to plastic does not mean not enjoying life to the fullest; rather it can be a way of giving thanks to the many blessings we have from God (especially when you become good stewards of His blessings like our Mother Earth). -30-