How Much Stuff do We Need?
I’ve been living a lot simpler lately. Ever since I discovered the blogs MNMlist.com and zenhabits.com I’ve been interested in doing more with less in this life.
This is is especially strange around the holidays when everyone seems to want to give gifts. I’m really excited about the holidays, but not about gifts. I’m focusing more on being present and enjoying the time spent with loved ones.
I also had an interesting situation last week that relates to this concept…
My parents recently moved out of the house that I grew up in and last week I had to go sort through all my childhood possetions – you know, all the stuff that I’ll probably never need or use again, but that you’d feel so bad throwing away.
I honestly tried to let go of as much as possible. I kept a few things, mostly because I imagine my children will one day want to see some of my memorabilia and I don’t want to deprive them of that.
As I was driving away, my car loaded up with all the artifacts of my youth, I really didn’t feel sad. In fact it was good to let go. Even though all that stuff wasn’t always with me, the fact that I saved ti meant that it was always a part of me.
On the far opposite spectrum, Laryn and I have been watching this show Hoarders on A&E. It’s about people who can’t let go of anything, whose houses just fill up with junk. Every time I watch it, I run around the house afterward throwing things away that I no longer use.
I feel like it’s a much healthier way of living. Using less, owning less, eating less, and living more. It’s not a bad way to be.
