The Black Death was a devastating global plague epidemic that killed 25-30 million people from 1347 to 1352. Perhaps carried by rats or human parasites via Genoese trading ships sailing from the Black Sea, the infectious disease entered Europe via Italy. Research suggests that the deadly plague was caused by a bacillus bacteria, Yersinia pestis, carried by fleas on rodents.
It was around that time, Britain introduced perhaps the first official garbage men in history. These workers were called “rakers’ and their job was to prevent the stink. They had to rake up decomposing trash, garbage, lining the streets and put the disease-causing toxins into a cart, on a weekly basis, and dispose of it.
Over the course of time, much has transpired globally to help create a safer, cleaner, purer world. Sanitation professionals serve a vital role in the freshness of our environment and deserve much praise.
In 1986, in the city of Philadelphia, sanitation workers went on strike during the Democratic National Convention. Over 15,000 tons of toxic incinerator ash was accumulated and the city needed a place to put it.
The ash was loaded onto a huge ship, the Pelicano, and for two years the ship traveled around to 11 countries in hopes of depositing the toxins somewhere. It became known as the most unwanted ship. The exact whereabouts of the disposal of all that noxious waste is questionable.
A particular personal vexation of mine is when I see worthless, discarded material or objects tossed in the streets and on the grounds. What an eyesore. I mean, really, how difficult is it to toss rubbish in a can?
States spend millions of our tax dollars each year to clean up litter and waste. In my opinion, scoundrels that toss garbage out the window of a vehicle need to be fined more than a pretty penny for breaking the law. It is a good thing I didn’t pursue a badge that earns a blue light. Please be a responsible, law-abiding citizen.
Not only does leaving refuse lying around reek of horrendous odors, it becomes a “perfect breeding ground for bacteria, insects and vermin.” The flies that visit the garbage are also the same flies that roam around dropping their offspring on your grub. Nauseating. Hope I didn’t ruin your lunch.
Statistics on Municipal Solid Waste, commonly known as trash, is staggering. A 2018 report from the United States Environmental Protection Agency stated that total weight MSW generated by material was 292.4 million tons.
Think of the most disgusting stuff that does get thrown out everyday. Consider the fact that there is someone willing to pick up and dispose of it all elsewhere. Grateful? I certainly am.
When my children were growing up they had chores to do on a regular basis. Monetary payment was not granted and they were encouraged to complete tasks with a positive attitude.
Their duties included, but were not limited to, collecting and taking out our trash. Grumbling and complaining did sometimes accompany their labor. I tolerated, but pressed on as it was necessary and part of their contribution within our home and to society.
Assigning chores to children can be beneficial to their development. Children who regularly do chores tend to have higher self-esteem, be more patient, and better equipped to handle frustration and responsibility. These skills can lead to greater success in various aspects of life such as school, work, and relationships (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry).
Assigning chores to children teaches them responsibility, instills self-confidence, and helps them grow and take care of themselves and the family home. Research shows it readies them for being grown-ups and on their own and has an overall positive impact on their well- being (journals.lww.com).
Thank goodness every week, early on Tuesday morning, a big white truck stops at the top of the Seays’ driveway. A man steps down off the back of the truck, picks up a can and dumps the contents into the back and then proceeds to the next stop and the next and so on.
When the truck is full, the unwanted, foul-smelling, revolting stuff is dumped onto the already huge heap at the Allegheny County Transfer Station. I appreciate the skilled brave workers willing to tackle this service for me and my community.
So, here’s the analogy.
Just like the Pelicano, the human heart can become loaded down with various kinds of garbage.
Holding a grudge, going to bed angry, envy, hate, slander. Betrayal, malice, greed, lust, self-absorption (fill in the blank). Oh, the stench! Left unattended, infectious toxins are detrimental to the body, mind and soul.
I know that when you point one finger, there are three pointing back to you. I have plenty of my own struggles… some of which were mentioned above. The first step is to admit my weakness and understand that the odor I sometimes present, is indeed, an offensive foul one.
The Sovereign God offers me the same grace for my garbage that he will offer you. There are no fees, schedules or limits.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit in me.” - Psalm 51:10 (ESV) This is a prayer that all of us should ask of God more often.
Now is the time to rake and take out the trash.
Get rid of your garbage.
PS — John Arwood, American businessman and CEO of JDA company specializes in garbage disposal and demolition. In 2011, he initiated, Global Garbage Man Day, on June 17th to recognize those professionals that collect refuse. The day was extended to a Waste and Recycling Workers Week to include all those employed within that community.
A friendly reminder for you to show utmost kindness to those hard-working individuals who toil in the shadows without recognition. Offer a cold drink, a bag of snacks, a friendly wave, a verbal or written note of thanks.
Always enjoy your post ! Thanks
Great thoughts, learned a lot from this post