Make it do, or do without.

ABC Evening News has had an interesting series this week,  Made in America. As you might imagine, I think they missed the point.

That old rhyme, Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without  comes a little closer.

But really, wouldn't make it yourself or do without  be better?

It's not an absolute, anymore than the original is. It is a mantra, a motto, not an outright refusal of the new and factory made.

It means that we keep what we have until it can't be used, that we take it on ourselves to fix and patch, and recycle instead of throw away.

It means that we should make what we can.

And yes,  Made in America is a good thing. Particularly if you live in America. But made at home is better, wherever that home is.