Food inspires me. Cupboards and refrigerator full. Homemade bread baking in the oven. Fresh fruit in a basket on the counter. A big green salad with my dinner. If my kitchen is full of food I feel safe. I could tell you why this is but then I would have to spend some time on your couch and you would probably charge me for it.
So just take my word for it. Food keeps me happy.
I am sure it keeps you happy too. Food security according to the World Food Summit of 1996 is, “when all people at all times have access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life”. That is a pretty tall order isn’t it?
For most of us in the United States, we have pretty good access to the food we like to eat. There are organizations and state agencies created to provide for the poor in numerous ways. Most of us give in whatever capacity we can to others who are less fortunate than we. We are a wealthy country. We have been blessed abundantly. Yet, there are signs on the horizon that this easy access to year round food trucked in from all over the world may be coming to an end sooner than we think. The average head of lettuce travels 1800 miles to get to your dinner plate. Food prices have doubled in just a couple of years.
Our economy is struggling. Debt to other nations is crippling. Massive environmental regulation, perhaps begun with good intentions is severely hampering even our personal ability to succeed.So I am inspired by preparation. I am inspired by personal responsibility. The responsibility to provide for a family and look to the future. How much of our own food are we capable of providing ourselves? What contacts do we have in our own neighborhood that we could partner with?The same abundance that has made us the most prosperous nation on earth has unfortunately led to being one of the most unhealthy. Chronic disease, obesity, and cancer have all skyrocketed with our prosperity.
No matter how much we want to ignore it, these health issues are inseparably connected with what we eat. Our genetically modified, ultra-refined, fast food lifestyle is killing us. It has been said that children today, who continue living on the Standard American Diet (SAD), will be outlived by their parents.
So I am inspired by vibrant health. I am inspired by energetic, lively children. What can I change about our family’s lifestyle that will give our children long-term food and health security?
Food security for all is a tall order, but, thanks to home aquaponics I can start at home.
