Why [not] go on a bike ride, even if it is 1,300 miles long? Why [not] put solar panels on my [future] house, or have a greenhouse to grow produce in all year long? Why [not] share my passion for music in my hometown and/or attempt to integrate it and the arts into that community? I cannot honestly think of good, valid reasons as to not do any of these things. Yes, some may say the cycling solo is dangerous; I agree to an extent. It's only dangerous if you're not prepared for situations or people that could cause harm--luckily I'm an OVER-PLANNER. I have a good head on my shoulders and am not going to put myself in a situation that I couldn't get out of, i.e. asking a stranger in a pick-up truck in the middle of nowhere if they could take me into town as the sun is setting or not stopping at the last 7Eleven I know I'll see for awhile when I'm getting low on fluids or food... etc. The last thing I want to do is be unprepared--it'll only make my trip harder for me! Also, some may ask about the cost/benefit ratio of solar panels and a greenhouse. They are EXPENSIVE, yes, but you have to calculate the benefit(s) in years, not instantaneous:
-Will you take the time to nurture and maintain your plants?
-How much of your grocery bills is spent on fruits/veggies each week or month.
-How much does that equate to over a year? Multiply it by a few years...
-How much does a greenhouse cost to build/maintain?
-How much do seeds and plants cost? Are they perennials or annuals?
These, and so many more questions that are related to our decisions, need to be asked. However, "Why would you do that?" simply doesn't seem like a logical one; it's vague, shows our lack of analytical and observational power. It also seems to give off an aire of skepticism and non-approval before we've even heard the reasons as to why. If someone where to choose buy a new car, even if I knew they couldn't necessarily afford it, I would ask "Why?!" Rather, I'd ask something like, "What are the benefits of this car versus your old one? Does it get better gas mileage? Safety features? Less spent on maintenance each year? Lower insurance rate?" Etc. We all have our reasons as to "why?" You better be able to back them up with logical and sound thoughts if you'd rather not get criticized.
That brings me to why I choose to do my cycling and recitals, attempt to lessen my carbon footprint, eat more locally grown and pesticide/hormone/GMO free foods, start a scholarship for my old HS, etc. I don't do these things to fit in, which some people do, unfortunately. I'm not trendy--you can ask anyone. I do these things for a purpose. Whether it's to fulfill me, help my hometown, better my body and mind, or just because it's something I enjoy--I always have a reason. I won't let others' fear or apprehension get in the way of what I'd like to do with my life; not that I won't take it into consideration, because there are definite circumstances and situations that I haven't taken into account that they bring to light! But, when I set my mind to something, it's going to happen whether YOU like it or not, for better or for worse.
As long as I have physical and mental capabilities to test, I will! Why not?
No comments:
Post a Comment