Since I began this long journey to live more naturally, I have noticed a phenomenon amongst like minded people and I must say I am not pleased about it. When I started I expected that when I met an individual with similar goals and aspirations that they would be supportive and helpful. I thought we were all there to help each other understand things and start making progress toward a more sustainable life. I actually thought I could find a community of people that I could bounce ideas off and garner support.
What I found was vastly different.
The economic downturn has brought urban homesteading to the forefront or mainstream and now it seems everyone is doing it. On one level this could be very good. Canning supplies are flying off the shelves. There are tonnes of new books being published on the subject. These are all great things for the most part but I also think it's created a new sense of competition. Instead of vying for the best gadgets or biggest house, now we are comparing pantries and garden plots.
Every time I meet like minded individuals the conversation quickly devolves into who has a bigger garden, how much jars have been put by and how natural a person's life is.
"Oh my kids NEVER eat sugar!"
"I would die if I had to live in the suburbs!"
"We NEVER exchange gifts during the holidays."
"That's not the best way. I do it this way..."
No support, just judgement. I don't even think people realize they are doing it. It's not only the things people say directly, but there seems to be an air of arrogance in a lot of people when it comes to living naturally. They know the way. They are better read on the subject, more experienced and better equipped than most. They are in essence more self sufficient.
I must say I have been flabbergasted at the number of conversations I have had recently that have left me feeling grossly inadequate and more or less the equivalent of a faker. It doesn't matter what I accomplish, someone has done better. Someone has a bigger garden, a more stocked pantry and a more simply life. Or at least they pretend to. Sigh.
This would all be very discouraging if it weren't for the simple fact that I am not doing this to impress people. I am not living simply and naturally so I can show everyone else up and act as if I am better. I am doing it for my family's health and the health of the planet. I have been on this simplicity journey for over three years and love it. Each year I learn more and get closer to my goals, as fluid as they are.
If homesteading is in the mainstream to stay then I would hope things will settle down and people will stop being so competitive about it. We need to just live and be a source of encouragement for others who are trying to do the same.
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