Electricity as an Entertainment Expense

Many things we use today for recreation are run with electricity. We watch television, DVDs, play video games, listen to stereos, and use computers. In many homes, there is more than one television set in use at the same time!

We also tend to (unknowingly) be more wasteful. We leave too many lights on, overuse the clothes dryer, and use far more water than necessary.

There was a time when electricity was only considered possible for those who had money to spare. Air conditioners, fans and even electric refrigeration was foreign to many struggling families up until the mid 1940's.

There were other ways to entertain oneself before the days of excess electricity consumption.  My childhood home had a large piano in the living room.  We children had such fun with it, even though none of us had formal lessons.  We also spent many hours outdoors - playing, running, riding bikes, having get-togethers, doing yard work, dreaming, visiting and enjoying the fresh air.

When someone, in my childhood home, was ill, a small portable television set was brought in for their use while they were bedridden for a day or two. This helped keep them comfortable and entertained while they recovered.  But it was not normal to watch lots of television, or have more than one unit running, in everyday life.

Something that might contribute to overuse of electricity is the lack of hard work being done in, and around, the home. Years ago, we would see mother sweeping the porch, hanging laundry on the line, gardening and cleaning, or decorating the home. She would wash windows (both inside and out), polish patio furniture, and clean out the car. Dad would be seen playing ball with the kids, mowing the lawn, doing house repairs, and taking pride in the way his house and yard looked. Parents found joy in taking care of the house, which made the short time of evening recreation more valuable.

I wonder what would happen if we limited the use of electricity during daylight hours.  We could use those hours to be productive and creative.  When the sun sets, we could use the unnecessary types of electricity that we all enjoy - for computers, television and the like.  This would seriously reduce our electric bills!  But most of all, it would simplify our lives and make it more rewarding.

Blessings
Mrs. White

From the Archives -

For Mother - The Comfort of a Dressing Room.

Nostalgia - Mother's Dinner Bell.

Stand Strong! - The Mother Who Will Not Accept Reality.



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