Of The World

I've been downsizing all of my stuff a lot lately (by 'lately' I mean over the past six plus months) and apart from discovering that I have a lot of striped shirts, I've been reflecting upon the fact that material goods seem to do nothing for me; I might go so far as to say they never really have. Even as I continually revamp my wardrobe, my clothes always seem to get simpler and more basic. Out of all my shoes, I wear four pairs at the most. Out of items in my room, I use maybe five every week that aren't clothes. This being said, I am continually prompting myself to ask the question, 'Why do we need stuff?'

When Christmas was coming up and my family members would ask me what I wanted, at first, I would blank. Then when I thought about it for a minute, I would tell them, "iTunes or money," because I love music and I'm always looking for new tunes; The money I could save or use for travel. I said these things because I knew they were not objects that would disappear into my room only to be kept for a few months and then be re-gifted, sold, or donated. But when I actually stopped and mulled over the question, the answer eventually hit me.

Before I would take any "practical" items I might need at the time, something I would always accept is a (new) experience.

Experiences are something a person can keep forever, but not in a concrete way. One isn't obligated to hold onto an experience for fear of offending the gift-giver and it can be enjoyed (or not), then moved on from. Items are meant to be used until they're worn out or passed on for others to enjoy and appreciate, but experiences one can truly keep. And a big plus is that most times, experiences are seldom forgotten. They are unique to the individual involved and can create memories that last a lifetime. This is another reason I enjoy traveling so much.

"When we begin to accept our memories as...treasure, not the physical objects that represent them, only then can we really get down to the business of ridding ourselves of this monstrous pile of collections that ties us down."

The short of it is, I don't want to be tied down to items anymore. I want to be free of the world's possession of me through my possession of the things it has to offer. Whew! That was a mouthful. I will happily accept people's gifts, but give me nothing if need be! I'd rather receive a heartfelt 'Happy Birthday' or cheerful holiday wish more than 'stuff.' But if the inclination is so felt, then take me somewhere. Anywhere.

---- Olivia ----