Thrifting at the end of the world
At least go out in style
I think it’s funny that the “end-timers” have switched. They used to be crotchety old Christian women who warned vehemently of our impending peril. Now they are hip 20-somethings with septum piercings and socialist Twitters. I never understood how both sides never reach the obvious conclusion, that climate change and armageddon are one and the same. It’s funny how they both believe the other to be wrong, while really just confirming the truth: dying is scary, it is inevitable, and we can’t save ourselves.
I’m not sure what I believe about those two religions other than that the world is certainly experiencing strange weather phenomena of Biblical proportions. But, I don’t like pollution or waste. I recall being taught in Bible School that God created humans as “Stewards of the Earth”, so I’m not sure how the Christian Right could be so opposed to helping clean up the mess we’ve made. Especially when, in my experience, the times I’ve felt the most faith in God, have been while looking from a high peak at the beauty of the earth.
Anyway, this is all a long introduction to how I got into sustainability. Yes, death is inevitable, yes, everyone on Earth now will be dead in approximately 100 years, and yes, maybe Armageddon/global warming is coming to render my efforts useless. BUT, as a steward of the earth, I feel obligated to TRY, and not completely kill God’s beautiful creation.
Cutting cosmetic/ hygienic plastic waste:
Plastic makes me sad. I began realizing how gross plastic waste was on the 3rd or 4th day of my period a year back. Tampons and other menstrual products used simply to sop up blood, create 200,000 tons of waste per year. That’s…real nasty, gals. I think that period cups are a great solution, but I know firsthand that they aren’t for everyone. Instead, I switched to applicator-free, organic tampons. Not only are these plastic-free, but they’re free from harmful chemicals.
Cosmetic products have simple alternatives more and more every day. I enjoy shampoo bars. They last a lot longer than one would expect (especially using a sustainable soap dish, see below) and still manage to keep your hair clean. Plus, they come without harmful chemicals that are in most bottled shampoo that kill your hair over time.
Upcycle…everything:
This is kind of fun, especially if you enjoy being creative. I use newspaper comics as gift wrap, old lids as soap dishes, and used glass jars as homemade candle containers (homemade candles are also a great cheap, easy, and sustainable gift). This is just the surface of the millions of ways things can be re-purposed. Check out this article from PostConsumers for fun ideas for the holidays.
Thrifting:
I love thrifting. Some of my favorite outfits are completely second-hand. The best part is that as a recent grad, thrifting is cheap. I can create an entire outfit for $15–30. Pretty good if you consider the skyrocketing inflation.
“Why even try to look cute when the world is ending?” you ask. “Why ask stupid questions?” I respond.
Thrifting also allows you to curate a unique wardrobe with pieces that speak to you. No two things are alike and you might even end up with something handmade like the sweater pictured above. You can even thrift online with websites like ThreadUp, so really, there’s no excuse.
In 2022, I resolve to fully commit to buying only second-hand stores. I bet my wallet will be thankful, too.
The Last Hurrah
As a meme once said, “It ain’t much, but it’s honest work.” And, if the doomsayers of left and the right are correct, this may be our last hurrah. So, may as well try and do what we can to better the world around us, to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation while we are still on this Earth, and not be afraid to look stylish (though I usually shop for cozy), while doing so.
