Poem

Think, Refuse, Re-use, Recycle, Be Proud: A poem by Mr. Greenly

Theme: Poem, Fun, Eco-living.

Reading Time: 1 minute.

First, we must think

First, we must stop, and think, and be sure.

Is it necessary? Do I need this? What is it for?

Without it, I wonder, is there a way to get by?

If I bury this impulse, and walk, head held high?

Then, we refuse

But its colours, the comfort, this one time offer…

A friend I know has one, but must I bother?

Say no! It’s not needed! There is an alternative!

Hard times, a warming climate, we must be conservative!

If we need, then re-use

Ok, I admit, for this purpose, there’s no other.

This item, it fits, and there is not another.

Think hard, must I buy? Or perhaps, I can salvage?

Second hand? Recycled? Or another man’s garbage?

If new, then recycle

Second hand is not available, I searched, but didn’t find.

So new is the only option, but I must keep in mind:

Where does it go, when its use, is all but finished?

Where do I send it, when its old, and its shine is diminished?

Be proud

I think, I refuse, I re-use, I recycle!

I’m happy to acknowledge my mindset’s revival!

I look for no thanks, but take warmth from the pleasure,

I helped children, the Earth, and all life, which I treasure!

Written by W. A. Greenly

W. A. Greenly’s upcoming articles include:

  • The Mystery of the Australian Megafauna.
  • Recycling Made Simple.
  • The Climate Change Vortex.