Recently something happened that got me to thinking about possessions. It occurred to me when most people started out they were interested in obtaining things. Then as they matured they realized it was the things they didn’t have that gave them the most joy? For example, not having a mortgage, or car loans or any debt for that matter likely meant they didn’t have the stress associated with meeting those obligations. It also means you can help others. The phrase that comes to mind is peace of mind and freedom. For me it is priceless.
I had a hard lesson on stuff early on, not long after I graduated I bought a very bare bones Volkswagen Rabbit. I took pains in keeping it tidy and well maintained. The day I made the last payment I was overjoyed. I believe it was that very week I was rear-ended at a stop sign and the car was nearly destroyed. It cured me of any desire for zoom zoom. Ever since then a car has been just transportation, nothing more. I still maintain them, but in the end it is a piece of metal. Covid has meant my car sits and only goes out once or twice a week. Sure, every now and then I still fantasize about that BMW convertible, but then it quickly passes. I do envy those that have a true passion for stuff.
I think I could sell the house and everything tomorrow and move into a well-fitted travel trailer and still be happy, maybe happier. I think it is freedom from stuff that is calling me.
A few weeks back my college roommate was featured in a publication. There was a picture of his wife and him both looking very thin and dapper - a real power couple. I dropped him a note saying so. He contacted me and told me about his recently purchased Gulf Stream. He also told me about all the medical problems he has and had. I was sad to hear it. It was a poignant reminder there is one possession worthy of pursuit, and that is your health. I think it was the catalyst for thinking about possessions.
I think I will have an extra long exercise walk today.
Are you on a journey away from stuff?
I had a hard lesson on stuff early on, not long after I graduated I bought a very bare bones Volkswagen Rabbit. I took pains in keeping it tidy and well maintained. The day I made the last payment I was overjoyed. I believe it was that very week I was rear-ended at a stop sign and the car was nearly destroyed. It cured me of any desire for zoom zoom. Ever since then a car has been just transportation, nothing more. I still maintain them, but in the end it is a piece of metal. Covid has meant my car sits and only goes out once or twice a week. Sure, every now and then I still fantasize about that BMW convertible, but then it quickly passes. I do envy those that have a true passion for stuff.
I think I could sell the house and everything tomorrow and move into a well-fitted travel trailer and still be happy, maybe happier. I think it is freedom from stuff that is calling me.
A few weeks back my college roommate was featured in a publication. There was a picture of his wife and him both looking very thin and dapper - a real power couple. I dropped him a note saying so. He contacted me and told me about his recently purchased Gulf Stream. He also told me about all the medical problems he has and had. I was sad to hear it. It was a poignant reminder there is one possession worthy of pursuit, and that is your health. I think it was the catalyst for thinking about possessions.
I think I will have an extra long exercise walk today.
Are you on a journey away from stuff?