Growing up during the Cold War era, I don't remember seeing any goods made in China. A "Made in Japan" label was more common, and deemed inferior in quality as "Made in China" is today. So how aware are we of where our goods come from and how they are manufactured? Do we take the time to think through what type of political regime we are supporting when we purchase a garment at Kohl's or WalMart? Was it sewn or assembled in a sweatshop? While 90% of all handbags available in department and discount stores today, what is the true worth of a Coach handbag purchased at Nordstroms, average cost $200-600, compared to a similar style bag sold at Target? What price do we really pay for the flush of pleasure we experience when someone spots the "Coach" logo on our person? Should we avoid the "Made in China" label all together or should we take delight in knowing our purchase helps keep someone employed, no matter their nationality? Yet, with toys and other goods made in China making the headlines in the last several years for violations of safety standards, I choose to purchase goods made in the USA.
For the past fifteen years, I have purchased several Vera Bradley purses, an American company, who started out as a home business in Indiana before manufacturing their quilted handbags in a plant. As the company grew exponentially within a few short years, they began jobbing out most of their manufacturing to China. When I discovered the "Made in China" tag, I began searching for an alternative and found Stephanie Dawn purses, manufactured by an Ohio company who purchased Vera's old equipment. SD's prices are comparable to VB and the quality exceeds its Chinese-made competitor. By supporting Stephanie Dawn, I feel that I am investing, in some small yet essential way, in my state's economy--in the lives of those whose hands assembled it. I have seen statistics proving that shopping independent stores and goods labeled "Made in USA" boosts the economy of our communities.
How aware are we of where our food is grown? of whether it is genetically modified? what pesticides or fertilizers are used on it? irradiated? What is the impact on our bodies of these 21st century methods of growing food, methods which certain factions believe to be necessary in order to assure our food's abundance and safety? Until we fully understand the impact on our bodies of these farming methods, I choose to stick with organic and homegrown produce, grains, and meat, despite the increased cost.
I believe that it is incumbent upon me as a Christian to educate myself about the sources and methods of manufacturing and food production for which I exchange my money, i.e. my life energy.
