entry 2

So far in the next part of the book the family explains what rules they live by now, like:

“1. We wish to set up a semi-self-contained household unit, based largely on a use economy, and, as far as possible, independent of the price-profit economy, which surrounds us.

2. We have no intention of making money, nor do we seek wages or profits. Rather we aim to earn a livelihood, as far as possible on a use economy basis. When enough bread labor has been performed to secure the year's living, we will stop earning until the next crop season.

3. All of our operations will be kept on a cash and carry basis. No bank loans. No slavery to interest on mortgages, notes and I.O.U's.

4. We will make our cash crop from maple syrup and will work out a cooperative arrangement wherever possible.

5. We will put syrup production on an efficient basis, replace the old Hoard sugarhouse with modern building and equip it with new tools.

6. So long as the income from the sale of maple syrup and sugar covers our needs we will not sell anything else from the place. Any garden or other surpluses will be shared with neighbors and friends in terms of their needs.

7. We will keep no animals.

8. We will not waste time making over old buildings.

9. We will pick out site for permanent house.

10. We will build of natural stone and rock.

11. Get lumber from own forest.

12. Use gravel as necessary trying not to use more than needed.”

They put these into effect when they have to make a gravel road. These rules were also put into affect when they had to figure how were going to get things from other people and not seem greedy.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_and_Scott_Nearing

Discussion questions 

1. would you follow these guidelines when you are doing the thing that they are?

2. If you could edit these rules what would you change and why?