Why I Love Freecycle (TM)

Have you heard of Freecycle (TM) ? It's a grassroots movement to keep perfectly useable "good stuff" out of landfills. It's neighbors helping neighbors by giving each other what they need or want. It's people sharing and feeling great in the process.

It started in Arizona, but has moved all over the world, thanks to the ease of Yahoo groups. Members post announcements when they have something to give away. Other Freecyclers respond by email if they desire the announced item. A thermal paper fax machine, a commuter coffee mug, a kid's bike, used toddler clothing, concrete spacers, some closet doors, and a box of outdated computer parts were recently posted on my local Freecyle (TM). The pick-up arrangements are made "off list," and the good stuff finds a new home.

I'm someone who struggles with clutter. It's hard for me to get rid of things that I imagine I might need some day. De-cluttering elicits such anxiety that I delay doing it, my home fills with unused stuff (so that the things I am using have no place to go), and I feel depressed and anxious because of the clutter. It's a vicious cycle. But Freecycling my stuff has helped. I feel great knowing that my unused things are finding a good home. And I love seeing the stuff being carted away by smiling neighbors.

Check out www.freecycle.org to see if there's a Freecycle (TM) group in your community. If there is, it's easy to follow the prompts and join. If not, hey, why not consider moderating a group in your community? It takes about half an hour of your time each day (maybe less), and you're making a real difference in your community.

If you live in my neighborhood, please join the La Canada-Flintridge Freecycle (TM), or visit www.freecycle.org to find Freecycle (TM) in your area.

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