Since forever, we are inundated with marketing messages that makes us believe we need to live a lifestyle that is geared towards acquiring posessions, and some stuff on the side for when you get tired of your old things.
How would your life be if you had to throw away all your clutter? All the clothes, electronics, cars, shoes, computers, and the gym set and extra furniture in the garage? Would it make a difference to your level of happiness? Will buying more of it make you happy? Probably not..
You may experience some sort of emotional high for a short period of time, but that soon subsides and you’ll be right back where you were before you had the extra things.
I have been giving away my things, stuff that I don't need or have been keeping ''just in case'' for some years now and and feel lighter every time I do this. I think many people would feel an intense sense of liberation if they did the same. We drag things around because we perceive them to be important, when in reality, they mean very little in the grand scheme of life.
Of course I will allow a material possession or two to keep me motivated to reach some goals. The message is to take some time and forget about all the stuff that your life revolves around and that can get in the way of what life is all about. Try it for a few days or weeks and I think you’ll find other things in life that give you joy and excitement. Take your children on a nature hike and discover living things that you normally don't give a second thought to. The best learning materials are out there in nature. Trees to climb on, plants, insects, animals..and you can have discussions about the stars and the planets. As Anastasia says, ask them what they think about the moon and the stars. Really engage their minds instead of spoon feeding textbook knowledge in 2D. They have a wealth of untapped wisdom if only we would allow them the opportunity to tune in.
You can also plant a fruit tree or two or 80 if you have some land. Think about the benefits your family and future generations will have from the fruit bearing trees.
Life, and all living things are where we need to be investing in..
Very good post. It makes a lot of sense.
ReplyDeleteThere once was a home where there was clutter still in the purchasing bays of years or months old. I think when we develop the habit of putting everything in a Designated area, we lessen the likelihood of this kind of clutter. If in addition to having a place for everything and keeping everything in it's place, should be the habit keeping areas organized. In this way, clutter is less likely to build up.