Incinerating Toilets (#7)

Over the last year or so I have developed an obsession with the Tiny House Movement. Check out YouTube videos of tiny houses, usually on wheels, or Google the Tiny House Movement and you will learn more than you ever wanted to know. [Yes, this is going somewhere related to Lent.] Individuals and families move into tiny homes for several reasons, but some of them involve reducing their carbon footprint and their dependence on traditional energy sources. The homes are usually mobile and much more affordable than paying rent or a mortgage on a larger home. In addition to savings in terms of natural resources and finances, individuals and families must reduce their personal belongings, which many find to be a spiritual process in itself. One has to ask, “What is really needed?” ”What is important to my health and well-being and the management of daily life?” Other people find that by worrying less about being burdened with large bills and a long-term commitment to a specific location they can enjoy life more. The expression “doing more with less” takes on new meaning. With fewer burdens on finances and location, many find they can pursue hobbies, spend on what really matters to them, and shape their lives around their values rather than their possessions and obligations. One of the interesting things about Tiny House living is the many and varied ways people choose to power their electricity and get rid of waste. Some models are designed for longer stays and have hookups to local electricity and sewage. Many models are also ready for travel. I’m learning a lot about solar energy, but I’m less knowledgeable about the sewage disposal options. Recently, I read about incinerating toilets. It’s a cool idea. In most cases no water is needed and periodically waste products are just burned away. There is an odor, of course, but talk about being cleansed in consuming fire! In the New Testament, chaff (dry protective parts of wheat or other grain) is burned in fire and the good stuff is set apart. Incinerating toilets burn away the waste products and leave a little bit of ash; and we already know that ash was frequently used in soap-making. [If you missed the Ash Wednesday service, stay tuned for more on post on making soap.]