Breathe: December 2011

We’re still looking for loads more Detoxers to let churches know about the 2012 Lent Consumer Detox. Details of the seven small group sessions and daily blog are here (http://consumerdetox.wordpress.com/). If you can help let people know by sending a few emails in January, just reply to this email saying ‘yes’ and naming the city/town where you live.  

Eileen Padmore writes: ‘Consumer Detox by Mark Powley came onto my radar earlier this year and has altered my thinking radically.  There has even been a knock-on impact on lifestyle  - although that is a work in progress!  The book’s wit, humour and common sense offer a positive way through the maze of ‘thou shalt nots’, so often evident around the subject, whilst the authorial stance of ‘recovering consumer’ is particularly encouraging. Mark grounds his rationale firmly in the Bible, which no doubt accounts for the power of this wise and creative approach.  I have felt free to recommend it widely because it touches on major issues that resonate with all who live on this planet, whether of the Christian faith or not.  Why not consider giving it as a present this Christmas?’

Votes for second hand clothing: ‘I always prioritise charity shops’ Adrian; ‘Basically, second hand clothes is the answer’ Tim; ‘My husband and I now try to buy most of our clothes from charity shops’ Lydia; ‘my aim is to give an item to a charity shop or crisis centre for every item I buy’ Jackie

One Lent I decided to give up shopping in High Street clothes shops and just shop in charity shops. And it was amazing and totally changed the way I shop. I pretty much only use charity shops now for clothes. This has given rise to a new word for charity shop shopping (which seems a bit long-winded): chopping. (Hannah)

My 18 year old son has developed his own approach to living simply regarding his wardrobe. I’m not convinced this is out of concern for the environment or striving for a less cluttered life – it may be simple laziness. I’ll let you be the judge. James believes a man’s wardrobe need only comprise the following:

Having 3 daughters as well, it is quite a relief to have one offspring who is committed to a simpler approach to his wardrobe! (Sarah)

For me living more simply in the area of clothes involved buying quality items (often spotted full price then bought in the sale) which work as a gok wan style capsule wardrobe, ie a smaller number of items which work in different combinations to create maximum number of outfits. I do believe it's important to look nice, honouring God's creation of our bodies, honouring our partners by being attractive and making sure people don't think Christians or ethical people are sloppy mingers! My fave ethical supplier is probably Howies, Timberland and Ascension. (Victoria)

It is easy to get hung up on clothes. We live in an environment where we are judged by our looks. It takes a lot of encouragement to learn to like ourselves the way it is. It took me 3 years before I was brave enough to not wear foundation to church! However, it feels so good now! (Sally)

I tend to buy quality items that will last many years, usually until they wear out. I also cleared out my wardrobe a few years back to make sure that everything in it is (a) a size that fits, (b) in a style / colour / shape I'll wear, and (c) something I've worn in the last year. If I've not worn it in the previous year, it's time to say goodbye to it. (Joanna)

I'm a big fan with anything to have a budget and/or to go shopping with a list and stick to it. I don't think there's anything wrong in being joyful spenders which is where the budget comes in - freedom within those parameters. Twice a year our church holds a "Give or Take" event where anyone in the local community can take or give clothes and other items (small household goods etc) and even in our area of urban deprivation it's amazing how many lovely things change hands. (Mary)