The other day, I went to check out a farm – and ya know what, I did not care for it. At first, the setup seemed lovely, but once I asked some questions I became uncomfortable with the farmers.
I think access to farms and farmers is essential and we should use this proximity to our advantage. To know what we like and evaluate if the farmers are on the same wavelength.
For too many, clicking a button has taken precedence over reasoning when it comes to liking things. It has become unnecessary to think. But, when it comes to your life you should. Don’tcha think?
Well, so I was at this farm and the farmers were nice as can be and very welcoming. But, my stomach got to churning a bit when I brought up the topic of what chemicals they use.
They said they are organic but not certified because it’s too expensive. That’s fine. I don’t have a problem with that. But, I asked the simple question of what they use on their crops and they started stammering a bit.
When I asked if they use any chemicals they admitted that they use Round-Up.
Ugh.
They added that they only use it around the flowers. But, they said, people don’t eat flowers.
Uh, but we put them close to our faces and smell them. We touch them and fill vases with water for them. We then dump that water into our sinks and sewers and septic systems.
Those sewers and septic systems filter into the ground where we live – and where our children play and where we grow food.
And what about when the flowers are growing? When the chemicals are on your lawn at the farm? Do animals and insects have access? Are you maybe poisoning honeybees?
And even if it’s minuscule amounts, every bit matters. Besides, just supporting a company that makes a product that is so harmful is upsetting to me.
But, that’s just me.
How do you feel? Take the time to get to know yourself and ask questions. Start at the local level. Ask questions about the way farmers grow their (your!) food, ask where stores source food, learn about GMOs, pesticides and organic.
And know how your want to live your life.
Knowledge is power. Have a great week!
This image has nothing to do with my blog entry. I saw this truck the other day and thought the cargo looked like an elephant with a foliage tail.
