Most of us had parents or grandparents who could fix anything--and I do mean ANYTHING. My grandmother could (and did) make a broken slip strap last another 10 years with a needle, thread, and later safety pins. My grandfather used jelly jars instead of a tool kit to hold his small tools, screws, washers, and tidbits necessary for the maintenance and repair of machines that we now consider disposable, but that he made last 20, 30, even 40 years.
From roof repairs to small motor fixes, do-it-yourself or DIY isn't just a lifestyle choice, or a marketing trend, or hot topic in the media. DIY means learning, empowering ourselves with skills and approaches to problem-solving that serve us not only in our wallets, but also help us to set examples for future generations, neighbors, and our community.
DIY itself is apolitical, but the effects ripple out to reach back and pull into the 21st century key philosophical concepts such as self-sufficiency, efficient use of resources, and community aiding community.
Note: I am guest-blogging for sarahnity
