To be self- sustaining is kind of an anomaly in this current global climate, however, the trend to be more frugal is a growing movement. I surmise that the most economical way of living, in the long run, is to be more self-sustainable rather than system-reliant.
In the times of our forefathers, the new settlers to the land, the pioneers and even those here before them, the Natives, there was no system other than community to sustain one’s way of life. The community was made up of families who sustained themselves by gardening, trade and skill. Our community has changed now to encompass imported items from other countries and conveniences we think we cannot do without.
The waste and frivolity of our current societal norm thought to be a higher standard of life can easily become our demise. The more self-sustainable a family unit is, the more they will actually have to share with those in need. The more self-sustainable a family is, the less waste and reliance upon others they will be. The more self-sustainable a family is, the more appreciative they are of the basic necessities that are required to live. These are not only attainable attributes but also are the most desired characteristics of a family who wishes to become more frugal. No one wants to become stingy. But to still rely on the status-quo and cut corners often makes us so. Choosing voluntary self-sustaining practices leave less room for feeling deprived and yield more empowered individuals in the process.
