The Frugal Musician adopts the indian way

My Grandfather survived on this earth without using anything that did not go back into the earth. The whole world could learn from that.” –Floyd Westerman, SIOUX As the season of excess approaches, we would do well to remember this wonderful adage from the Sioux indians. As the plethora of plastic (things and cards) invade our everyday space, truly think about your Christmas purchases.  This requires careful consideration and a cognisant ability to see beyond the gift. This year, I’ve created handmade bags and paper beads to give as gifts. I’ve sent gifts of books in cardboard boxes wrapped in paper craft sheets. I have to admit despite my best efforts, I’ve fallen short of having a totally green holiday. I purchased Avon lotions, bubble bath, and chapsticks for gift giving from my neighbor who uses Avon income to suppliment her retirement. A good deed- but an ungreen result. I can only hope the recipients of these items will recycle.   “Our grandfathers knew how to live in harmony. They did not create poisons or technologies that destroyed things. They did not make their decisions based on greed or for selfish reasons. They did not take more then they used. Their thoughts and actions were about respect. The Elders conducted themselves in a respectful way. We need to consider our actions around respect for Mother Earth.” My Creator, have the grandfathers teach us today about the old ways.  This meditation is available at http://www.whitebison.org