Sometimes when I’ve had a bit too much bubbly to drink
I climb upon my soap box and don’t bother to stop and think.
So if a topic arises that I am very passionate about
I open up my mouth and my opinions come flying out.
And so it happened one New Year’s eve not long ago
I’d had my fill of bubbly and my face was all aglow.
With family and friends I chatted, confident and bold.
Then the environmental topic began slowly to unfold.
Conversation led to the garbage that we all accumulate.
I drained my glass of bubbly, could feel myself inflate,
Then climbed on my soap box and pulled out all the stops.
And vented my frustration regarding all those landfill shops.
‘Damage to the ozone layer, talk of global warming.
Reduce our carbon footprint is the constant warning.
Everyone can lend a hand in reducing the pollution.
So let’s all take one small step to find a small solution.
Perhaps a little push towards some regulation
On all the landfill shops spread across our nation?
I mean all those discount shops, bargain stores and such
Stocked with cheap items that doesn’t cost you much.
There’s at least one in every town across our land,
Selling toxic items that probably should be banned!
Have you noticed that plastic odour as you hurry by?
It takes away your breath and fumes get in your eyes.
Toys, nicknacks, and plastic merchandise galore.
Imported in containers and landing on our shores.
Garbage that ends in landfill just because it’s cheap.
Useful for a week or two then tossed onto the heap.’
I eventually took a break and refilled my empty glass
But can’t remember the results that later came to pass.
Except when farewells were said amid the jibes and hooting.
(They’d definitely watch the news on any drive-by shooting!)
My goodness what did I say to give them that idea?
I guess my thoughts on landfill shops was intensely clear!
Betty Milligan
March 2020
