As discussed in my previous posts, it took a major revelation (reading a powerful article) to force my hand in making the switch to organic. I long didn’t feel it was ‘worth the investment’ and thought the ‘implied’ higher price was too much of a deterrent to make the change. Officially 1 year removed from that event and living organically (in regards to my meat, produce, and dairy products), I can not only see the benefit physically, but can feel a more pronounced rejuvenation of energy. So staring at beginning of organic life- year 2, I have really turned my attention to spreading the message.
First it was my roommates who felt the wrath of my movement. They basically hopped on board with me initially as I started buying organic. But they weren’t completely converted. Then it moved onto my parents and immediate family members, they are slowly converting. I have began to realize that it takes either triggering a hot button, shock value, or constant badgering of the benefits they will see from a physical and mental standpoint. It boiled down into 5 reasons why they should choose organic over synthetic.
1. It is NOT more expensive…. it is actually cheaper!! – This one has been going over well, but not without some serious rebuttals. When you go to a grocery store or market and line up organic products vs. synthetically derived products, yes organic is more expensive BUT…. What people fail to realize is that when it pertains to produce, growing your own organic garden can not only allow for sustainable gardening, but create an outdoor haven away from the hustle and bustle of our life (i will go into this below). As it pertains to meat and other resources, compare organic meat to synthetically enhanced meat and you will find the price difference minimal, if any. What you make up for is the wonderful taste that is apparent with organic meat. There is a new level of joy that goes into biting into a burger off of the grill made with organic beef. YUM!!
2. Growing your own garden gets you out of the house!! – Flat Screen TV’s are all the rage and new sitcoms are popping up everyday, we run the risk of becoming drones in our own house. With laptops and WiFi more and more common, people are finally starting to peel away from the couch and spend their online viewing time on their patio, balcony, or yard. This is a great thing!! How good would it feel to entertain guests outside and show off the fruits of your labor, or better yet, allow your guests to try your organically grown produce while you entertain. What a good feeling that would be!! This is also two fold in the fact that it can give you an activity to do with your loved one (as i found this the case with me) or quite possibly just some ‘alone’ time outside in the fresh air.
3. Be healthy! – Gym memberships are increasing and with popular TV programs showcasing the extreme weight loss by those who decided to change their life, being fit is finally considered ‘COOL’. This means that embarking on fitness and health related activities are not only commonplace, but looked upon highly and one that is very social. There have been countless studies outlining the health benefits of organically derived meat and produce, so why not treat your body with these healthy alternatives to the syntheticaly derived versions.
4. Try new things! – The reason i started my organic garden included the first 3 reasons but it also included the fact it was a challenge. I wanted to try something new that i knew nothing about. I thought to myself, i should be able to do this. Now, one year into it, and my second ‘organic growing season’ right around the corner, i am already contemplating what I will plant this year.
5. It isn’t hard!! – i am by no means an avid gardener. I knew absolutely nothing about gardening 1 year ago, but I didn’t let that hold me back. I figured, if i fail, i only lose a few bucks for seeds and materials, and a few hours of my time. oh well, it is a learning experience. What I ended up getting out of it, was something that when I look back, I am irritated why it took me so long to start.
Do not let yourself, talk yourself out of going organic. Look at the alternatives and give me 5 good reasons why you SHOULDN’T go organic??
