New Year Ushers In New Decade

As we usher in the new year, we also begin a new decade. What does this new decade offer? Only time will tell.

I think of the past decade, little did we know as we entered the first decade of the 21st century what changes would be in store for us.

As we entered the year 2000, it seemed our major concern was Y2K.

Computers stopping, satellites and planes falling from the sky, financial markets tanking. Not to be, Y2K proved to be nothing more than an opportunity for computer manufacturers and programmers.

But within two years of our new decade our world changed forever, and before the decade would end America would suffer greatly.

Terrorism killing thousands on American soil, two wars would cost thousands of American lives, tens of thousands of wounded, and financial and economic disasters.

We learned that the American dream had nightmares too. Millions lost their homes to foreclosure, millions more lost their jobs, hopes, and futures.

What is in store for us in this next decade? What will be the catalyst of the next major change?

I could not say.

What I do suggest is this.

Continue to reevaluate your life and material needs.

Teach yourself and your children the joys of sustainable living.

Learn to be as self sufficient as possible.

If able, plant fruit trees and berry bushes, plant a garden, grow organically if possible.

If able, put a small chicken coop in your backyard, harvest your own fresh eggs.

Seek alternative heating for your home, water, and cooking requirements.

Recover rain water for gardening purposes, and possible gray water uses.

It is not impossible to achieve, we have done all the above at our home.

Make a commitment to yourself that this year, the very first year of our new decade, that you will become more self sufficient. Teach your children the importance of self-reliance and self control.

All it took was one day in September of 2001 to change the world forever, what will cross our paths this new decade?

I wish all of you peace, goodwill, and hope. Have a very blessed New Year and decade to come.

Brett