This is basically part 2 of yesterday's post. Remember my list? Well item number 2 was a Facebook post about rainwater capture. The post was actually a share of a share from a website. I confess that I didn't bother to read the entire article, opting instead to skim it; because what I did read proved that the person writing it is an angry whiner.

 

The article is about how rainwater collection is illegal in most states. Well, I don't know about "most" states, but I do know about Utah; the same Utah specifically mentioned in the article. The author made pains to suggest that rainwater collection in Utah is illegal - which it isn't; but because the author didn't bother to indicate when their example occurred, I can't say for sure (and frankly, I don't care to do all the legwork to find out) that it happened before or after the new law was implemented. Regardless, rainwater collection has been legal in Utah since May of 2010.

 

So what's my issue with this article (apart from the lack of dates and facts)? The issue is the total lack of responsibility repeatedly exercised by people. The Utah example was about someone who set up a rainwater capture system without first checking the rules. The author then goes on (ad nauseum) about how Americans shouldn't have to have permission from the government to capture rainwater. Well, I disagree.

 

In society today, there is a complete lack of understanding with regard to the need for rules (laws). The attitude is that all laws are bad and we should all be able to govern ourselves as we see fit. Well that would be great if everyone governed themselves with the same moral standards! Unfortunately, they don't.

 

The current gun debate in the US is a perfect example of this. The US already has gun laws and those laws should be sufficient to regulate and protect; and they would be, except for those people who think they can do whatever they want, so violate the laws we already have! (And, by the way, enacting stricter gun control laws isn't going to stop the problem at all - RE: Chicago gun-free zone if you don't believe me)

 

Rules are not the enemy. They exist to protect people, animals, the environment. A basic set of laws is necessary because humans are selfish creatures and many, when left to their own devices, will take advantage of others. Do I like having to get permission to do what I want? No, but I understand why some regulation is necessary and it bothers me when people, who didn't bother to check the laws, get their panties in a wad when they find out there are laws.

 

So what's the answer? Be responsible! Before you build a new structure on your property, find out what the regulations are! Before you set up a rainwater capture system, find out what the regulations are! Before you buy those dozen chickens, find out what the regulations are! Before you do anything, find out what the regulations are! You'll save yourself a lot of stress, time, and money in the long run. And if you choose not to check first? Then don't get bent out of shape when the government comes along and tells you you've broken the law.