I was hanging out my laundry this morning and since it was only slightly above freezing and the wind was blowing at about 25 MPH, my fingers became quite cold. I don’t mind. I love hanging out laundry. It is something that I have always done and I always will. It gives me an excuse to be outside in the fresh air, to practice presence, and to enjoy the birds and other wildlife.
Nothing can compare with the smell of fresh laundry brought inside to be folded. When there is a breeze, many items emerge as though they had been perfectly ironed, unlike the wrinkled fabric that is pulled from the dryer. Clothes last longer when line dried because all of that lint that you clean from the drier’s filter is a little bit of your laundry, disappearing bit by bit. That is why your blue jeans become thinner and thinner with each washing. The clothing manufacturers don’t mind because that means you will need to purchase new ones much sooner. The fabric softeners and dryer sheets that are over-used, contribute to a multitude of allergies, due to their imitation fragrance and colors that remain on the clothes when a person is wearing them. They cause breathing problems for those prone to asthma and skin rashes where there is direct contact with a susceptible person’s skin. Plain white vinegar is a far superior fabric softener that can be added to the wash and/or the rinse cycle. It also kills germs and dissolves odors. If that isn’t incentive enough to stop using commercial, chemically derived softeners, then the price of vinegar, which is much easier on the pocketbook, should push even the most doubtful over the edge.
I am fortunate that the place where I am living allows a clothesline. Most people are aware of our dependence upon fossil fuels, yet few consciously make an effort to conserve. What baffles me beyond comprehension, is the numerous living complexes and subdivisions that forbid clotheslines in their HOA’s. They claim that clotheslines are unsightly, but this is nothing more than opinion. It is the pot calling the kettle black. I have walked through so many areas where rock has replaced greenery and an infinite number of weeds lie on top of it, at some stage of decay, having recently been sprayed with glyphosates. Generally, there is weed barrier exposed in various places where the rock has migrated from its original location. I have walked through the back yards of dog owners that have not cleaned up their dog feces, for years. Trash is often seen caught up in tree branches and shrubs. Half dead flowers and trees with broken branches add to the scene. The dead lawn, which has been overtaken with weeds, has been mowed, but it has been years since the property possessed any curb appeal. Sidewalks and driveways are cracked with weeds growing through the crevices. Power lines criss-cross above and TV dishes protrude off the roofs and sides of houses. Even those yards that are well kept, often lack trees, shrubs, and any signs of life.
This game that so many play to fit in and comply, because everyone else is doing it, must be questioned. Instead of living under the illusion that by creating more and more rules, we can control others and the world, we must go much deeper. Instead of blindly accepting petty rules that are made only to satisfy a few, it is time to look at the bigger picture. Egos must be set aside so we can create a world that works for everyone and everything. The universe has provided us with fresh breezes and sunshine. Shouldn’t we be graciously accepting these gifts and doing all we can to ensure the future of our planet?
