On January 22nd, Faithfully Guided committed to picking up three pieces of garbage daily. We encouraged you, our families, and friends to do the same. This initiative is part of our commitment to participate in a “kindness challenge” on the 22nd of each month. This challenge was birthed after I attended a conference where I learned some staggering statistics. According to National Geographic, straws are the main contributor to the 8 million tons of plastic that makes its way into the ocean every year. It is estimated that 6 million straws and stirrers have been removed from beaches during annual cleaning events over the past 25 years. These little straws are mistaken for food by sea creatures, especially whales, and cannot be digested.

You are probably like me and wonder, “What can I do”? Well, I’m glad you asked! I will share with you what I learned from my conference. The simplest way you can eradicate straws from the environment is to stop using them altogether, buy reusable straws, or even purchase biodegradable straws. Moreover, when you are at a restaurant, simply let the waitress know that you are a straw-free table.

Faithfully Guided stands on the belief that ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it, for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters’ (psalms 24:1-2). Therefore, our team will continue our efforts on this kindness initiative through February 22nd and beyond. Moving forward, I urge everyone to give us feedback on different initiatives that promote kindness to self, others, and our community! Don’t forget to share with us how your family is being good stewards of what God has blessed us with!

Glory to God!
Ashlee