Garbage is big business. In fact, the money spent on “picking up” garbage left behind in public places such as parks, beaches, and forest land would pay for highway repairs, and benefit schools all over the country. America the Beautiful is fast becoming one of unprecedented garbage problems. Trash from car windows, in recreational places with garbage cans, but somehow the trash misses and lands anywhere but in the facilities provided, is still paid for with tax dollars.

Personal integrity is judged by more than the person themselves. It is also in the immediate surroundings of that individual. If you live with trash strewn all over your living area, then well, basically you need to clean up more than your back yard. Self-esteem reaches beyond who we are to our priorities.

Something as simple as tossing that Mickey D’s wrapper and cup right out the window displays a disregard for the highway used by millions of others, but also for the workers who have to clean it up. Their energy and pay check could be used in other vital areas to benefit mankind in ways that picking up after you just doesn’t “cut” it.

Forest lands are modern day garbage dumps. During the summer months, the scars on the land are not quite as visible, but come winter with the leaves down and trees bare, the degradation of humanity is glaring. Abandoned cars, kitchen appliances, and yes, even baby diapers that just aren’t “biodegrading” fast enough are not views that are displayed on travel brochures. Known as a “throw away society”, America was also known as America the Beautiful.

Scenic places and tranquil lakes are now plastic bag and water and pop bottle havens. Clean-up is more than a volunteer and community activitiy, it is expensive and time-consuming. Tax dollars are used and those who care enough to use trash barrels and con- tainers still pay just as much from their pay checks as those who toss and abuse and just don’t care.

If the environment doesn’t tear at your heart, then maybe your wallet will. Small steps such as garbage disposal could mean the difference between more community activities and better education, but it’s your choice. The next time you roll down that window and toss, look in the back seat where
your child is. Their future costs money and would you rather pay the salary to someone to clean up your disrespect or see that your child gets the best in a school or sport activity? It’s your call – but the heap is getting bigger.

Small steps for big results. One person can make a difference and three steps to a trash can may look like pennies, but pennies make dollars and dollars not only pay personal bills, but government bills as well. Something to think about.
©Arleen M. Kaptur