The Nature of Things

Life on earth can be broken down into a series of complex relationships we aren’t aware of and, in many cases, barely understand. Take mosquitoes, for instance. They’ve quietly destroyed countless lives for centuries and ruined many a nice evening in the backyard. Despite our advanced technology and fervent desire, we’ve yet to wipe them from the face of the earth.

As it turns out, this is a good thing. Upon hatching, mosquitos exist for the first half of their lives in bodies of water as larvae. They feed salmon fry and other aquatic life, which, in turn, feeds larger organisms such as birds, bats, bears and us. While we’d be able to enjoy evenings outside, the world would be a very different place without the annoying and sometimes deadly company of mosquitoes.   

Similarly, countries rely upon businesses for growth and stability; businesses rely upon suppliers for the raw materials they need; all of whom rely upon consumers hungry for food, durable goods, distractions and shiny baubles. This oversimplification describes the complex web known as the global supply chain, and it works until it doesn’t. Pluck a single strand in a faraway land and the ripples create disruptions that resonate throughout the web. In this instance, the web is our modern, hyperconnected world.

The tension could be something artificially created such as the war in Ukraine- the world’s largest exporter of wheat, or high inflation currently assailing consumers in the United States. Natural events such as a hurricane or heat wave are even more disruptive as they’re beyond our control. Many of the raw ingredients necessary for our daily consumption come from faraway places that are highly susceptible to natural disasters driven by our rapidly changing climate. For example, Madagascar is the world’s leading producer of vanilla. (As always, we’re not going to discuss your thoughts and feelings on climate change. Start your own blog!)

We’ve all noticed that prices have increased on daily necessities as well as the little luxuries. Eggs, milk, vanilla, avocados, and meat, to name a few. Some have suggested that fires at food processing facilities are behind the price increases. Of course, manufacturers and retailers are citing labor shortages, increased fuel costs, and inflation as drivers of price increases. Let’s not forget that prices are increasing largely because manufacturers are able to do so.  

While the average American family is in no danger of starving, the stress and financial strain of feeding one’s family is significant. What can we do in the face of economic instability and financial inequality? Well, as always we’re going to explore a few strategies to become better prepared while promoting a greater sense of security.

YOLO

We only get one life on this earth. The average American male lives roughly 75 years while the average American female has a little more time at 80 years. Either way, this isn’t much time considering how little of this time is spent in pursuits that bring us joy and fulfillment. If you dream of living in a small cabin deep in the wilds of Alaska, go for it! After you’ve done extensive research, planning and preparation, of course. Whatever it is that fills your heart with joy, get after it. Intention is the key to a rich and rewarding life. (As long as it’s nothing evil!)

Hedge Your Bets

Portable generators, emergency food stores and cash are all critical parts of an emergency supply cache. However, your food stores and cash can be used to ease the pinch if things get too tight or you fall onto hard times. Losing your job certainly qualifies as falling on hard times. Having food and money gives you the stability and resources you need to manage until your situation improves.    

Ask for Help

Even those with very little are often willing to help a relative or friend in need. Of course, help isn’t going to materialize out of thin air. Asking for help isn’t always easy. Pride, relationship dynamics and many other factors are at work here. Don’t cut your nose off to spite your face. Ask for help when you need it, and, if you’re able to help others, do so.  

Villages and Communes

However and wherever you choose to live, you need other people. A well-prepared, robust community is the best defense against adverse times and conditions. In days long gone, neighbors, blocks and communities took care of their own. Returning to that way of life wouldn’t be such a bad thing.  

Best By Dates

As you build your food stores, keep a list of the items you’d be willing to trade, barter, or simply give to others in need. Use your long-term pantry to replenish your short-term pantry, which keeps the working pantry in your kitchen fully stocked. The extra rice, beans, meat in the freezer in the basement or garage are all used to keep you going. Highly processed foods such as chips, crackers and cookies all contain oils that break down after a few months. Consume them before they go stale.

Channel Your Inner Chipmunk

A question for you; what do chipmunks and humans have in common? We store food for the winter! Train yourself to add at least two items to your food stores every time you go into a store. Shopping the seasonal and holiday sales and buying in bulk are smart moves. The freeze dried and dehydrated emergency meal kits, while not cheap, are excellent additions to your stores. You can often catch them on sale, and you can always use the shop now, pay later option.   

Trim the Fat

If you see that your situation is changing, get in front it of by carefully reviewing your finances. The headlines regularly feature stories about mass layoffs and corporate downsizing. Even if you manage to avoid the first round of layoffs, don’t wait to act. Perhaps you’re closer than you realize to paying off an outstanding debt, or consolidation loan would save you a few dollars monthly. The expensive lattes you start your day with and the pricey lunches you enjoy with coworkers add up. The road to financial stability is a marathon, not a sprint, and small actions matter.  

Here's some food for thought. Spiders consume 400 to 800 million tons of insects a year.  In comparison, humans consume about 400 million tons of meat and fish a year. Remind me again who’s existence is more important?