Dear Proper Green:
Why should I care about green etiquette? If other people don't do the right thing, shouldn't we call them out on it? Isn't that being true to our cause?
Dear Friend:
Well, the answer depends on what you are trying to accomplish. While it is always a good idea to be true to yourself, it is not always necessary to tell the world about it. What you decide for yourself and your way of life is your business. Likewise, others have the same right.
Think of the effect your words will have on someone else. I suspect you expect that they will glow with new-found adoration and thanks for pointing out their shortcomings. What you are likely to actually get is anger, defensiveness and hurt feelings. And, these are likely people that you see often, such as co-workers, neighbors or school mates. Here is the most appropriate place I can think of to put in a few tried and true adages: Do unto others, etc.; You get more flies with honey; A fire can’t burn without shedding light on something. You get it, right? Your green habits will set a good example for others without any finger-wagging on your part.
About Proper Green
The “green movement” is a relatively new one. And because it’s so new, ideas about what constitutes proper behavior within the movement are still evolving. But we think it’s important to establish some guidelines to help smooth the way.
Proper Green is (at least we hope) a blog about good manners in a green world. And while people often confuse “etiquette” with “manners” - the former deals with social custom, i.e., which fork to use or how to introduce your niece to your husband’s cousin at your step-sister’s second wedding––the latter is an expression of respect.And that’s what we’re going to focus on.
Good manners, like our planet, need care, attention and dedication. We hope you find inspiration and answers here.
Please send inquires to: Propergreen@recyclebank.com. Questions may be edited for length and clarity.
