just different. That’s what I tell myself when my mind covets all things shiny and new. Ha.
I need a new travel backpack, because my rolling carry on just isn’t good enough. I mean, how much more mobile would I be if I could carry my luggage on my back and not have to roll it around! It’s necessary.
I need to update my wardrobe with nicer things. I’m all for living with the bare minimum, as long as it’s good stuff.
I need an iPod touch. It’s smaller than my nook so it will fit into my everyday purse, and it’s battery life is better than my smartphone so it will last longer. It will also serve as an iPod, so I don’t have to lug my oh-so-cumbersome iPod nano around with me.
Yes, I’m being sarcastic. I’m know I’m being ridiculous. I don’t need any of the above. I’m getting by just fine without right now. But in my messed up brain, I believe that by replacing a few of my belongings with the latest-and-greatest, I’ll then be all set. I’ll stop coveting.
I know that’s a lie.
One of the primary reasons I see to live simply is so my mind and heart can focus on things that matter more than things. I’m obviously missing the point, and I have ideas on how to flip the switch, but I’m not sure I’m willing to make those sacrifices… yet.
For example, what if I followed in the footsteps of the One Dress Protest and wore the same “uniform” for a year? I’d stop thinking about what I’m wearing and what’s in my closet and focus more on the world around me. Right?
Or if bought nothing new for an entire year? (My mind immediately thinks _yeah, sure, AFTER I get the few things on my current covet-list.)
I know these things seem really extreme, but no matter how hard I try, I’m terrible at moderation. It’s all or nothing that works best for me. I think.
I posted the following quote in 2011, and I’m glad I just read it because I needed the reminder:
“Detachment from worldly desires is not that you should own nothing, but that nothing should own you.” Imam Ali
One last thought. What if, instead of focusing on some arbitrary goal, I lived without goals. Gasp! I know that’s contrary to all-things 43T, but I kind of love the concept. What if I made a conscious habit of making each choice I make a positive one? Instead of focusing on checking something off of my to-do list? It would be completely out of character, but maybe that’s the point.
Over an hour in the car this evening. Lots to ponder. And when I get to the fork in the road, I’ll take it. ;) 2 months ago