We need a change in the way we consume. In the way that we view our belongings. Yes, there is definitely a movement to buy better- to buy goods with thoughtfully intentional and ethical supply chains in mind. But we also need to buy less, and love what we already own more. To see that wear-and-tear of a well loved good as not the end, but a new beginning.
If you would have asked JP a month ago what a lifespan was of his favorite socks, he might have answered- until he wears a hole into the heel (which he does on every single pair of his socks somehow). I committed to learn to darn this year, and with this new skill it is surprising how empowered we can feel by this simple act of repair.
Sometimes, we look at the world and think that change is too hard, too big, too elusive. The problems of our earth, climate change, plastic pollution, etc, in every sense of the word, are global.
The bigness of earth’s problems requires bold action, yes, but also small acts of hope and resilience. To be an ally of life on Earth, we must change our relationship to the things we collect. Life is not disposable, and so we must not treat the goods in our life as such.
And so, what are we to do as a company that offers a product into the stream of commerce? At our best, we endeavor to provide a good well-made, well-used, well-loved, well-cared-for, well-needed, and well-repaired.
We are heartened to hear from our intentional, nature-loving, simplicity-seeking supporters who say that our merino long johns are the coziest pajama and best performing base layer. To us, creating multifunctional clothing is not just a feature; it’s a mission to consume better and less.
And as we learn to extend the life of things we love, we begin to live in better harmony with the rhythms of Mother Nature. We begin to change our relationship to that which we consume.
With each new repair, socks in this case- literally, we can stand on new ground, with a new appreciation for the life of the things we love. With a new perspective on what we need, consume, and own. And a new sense of responsibility to live in better harmony with the world we share. All with a little time, care, and the gift of our hands.
And, in that seed of change, rests the radical hope that we can tackle the big problems. That we can create, through our small acts done with great love, the more beautiful and sustainable world that our children deserve.
// Thanks to @thefarwoods for their wonderful darning instructions in their book “Mending Life- A Handbook for Repairing Clothes and Hearts”