The Price of Necessity

[Sachita]

Originally Posted by Waldo

Finally (oops, guess it wasn't just two things after all, was it?) - years ago I dated a woman who'd lived for a time in Africa doing peace corp work. At the time I had a real shoe thing. I bought shoes ALL THE TIME. I probably had going on 40 pair or so. She had three pair. A pair of sneakers, a pair of Chaco sandals and a pair of boots. It really bothered her that I had so many shoes. She asked why and I said "well, you need shoes". To which she answered... "Do you?. There are countless people the world over who not only don't have shoes and they get along just fine. And the shoes that we consider a necessity are really just luxury. We need something to protect our feet, sure - but could we not just strap some rubber to our feet and call it good?"

Needless to say, that gave me much to think about. I live an extremely comfortable life. I want for very little. But the best part about that is that it's not because I have every toy under the sun, it's because I do not desire every toy under the sun.

One day I decide to finally go through lots and lots of boxes I've been storing and dragging around the country. I remodeled a 110 year old Victorian home I bought in the Adirondacks. Stuff got packed and stayed that way thru that project, my sanctuary hidden in the florida everglades and finally to my farm here in Va. These boxes revealed a long journey and how I evolved and changed over that 15 year span.

You think you have shoes??? lol- omg did I have shoes and not just any shoes. Shoes and boots I (or someone) paid way to much money for. Shoes I wore once or twice. Unpractical 6 inch stilettos, platforms, etc. I wouldnt dare attempt today. Clothes- 400.00 suits, 600.00 dresses, belts, accessories. I looked at all this "stuff" as I sat on the floor in my pull up walmart shorts and over sized men's V neck t-shirt. Even on a farm I rarely wear shoes and when I do its flip flops, crocs or cowboy boots. I couldnt believe how much I'd changed. There was a time when I wouldnt go out of the house without makeup and heels.

So many other things became a priority and lets face it, 500.00 today is a lot harder to come by then it was at the start of the internet boom. Although there are some things I miss I know the quality of my life has changed along with my priorities. Here's the interesting thing tho... if I could do it all over again I would be her. I regret it took so long to listen to my heart and follow my real dreams. I spent too much time being afraid to take that leap and although quite the challenge, it has been an incredible journey.

[christie]

Originally Posted by Sachita

You think you have shoes??? lol- omg did I have shoes and not just any shoes. Shoes and boots I (or someone) paid way to much money for. Shoes I wore once or twice. Unpractical 6 inch stilettos, platforms, etc. I wouldnt dare attempt today. Clothes- 400.00 suits, 600.00 dresses, belts, accessories.

Have you been peeking in my closet????

Seriously, I get what you are saying. I am certainly guilty of being excessive. I think a good deal of this comes from the struggles of being a 20something single mother where every penny had to be a "necessity" purchase - food, basic clothing, shelter and medical.

At this point in my career (and at my income level), we probably DO spend more on "stuff" than at any other time in our lives, combined. But, for me, its about making life easier. I refuse to do the mental self flagellation over things I want. I feel that I deserve it. I feel that Jess deserves it. We've both struggled and I don't think there is a reason for us to do with less now because we don't have to.

Could we live with less? Certainly. Are there times when we do? Yep.

The 25 yr+ dishwasher exploded all over the kitchen floor about a month ago. We had our handyfella haul it away. We haven't rushed to purchase another because when we do, I am likely to replace the existing range with a mondo matching mack-daddy gas range and new fridge. There is nothing wrong with the range or fridge other than we both prefer cooking with gas and we both think the mammoth older side-by-side is just too big and not practical for us.

Until we come to the "justification" part of the mental purchase process, we will continue to be well acquainted with the dishpan and dish drainer. Where's good ole Madge and her Palmolive???

[Sachita]

Originally Posted by christie0918

Have you been peeking in my closet????

Seriously, I get what you are saying. I am certainly guilty of being excessive. I think a good deal of this comes from the struggles of being a 20something single mother where every penny had to be a "necessity" purchase - food, basic clothing, shelter and medical.

At this point in my career (and at my income level), we probably DO spend more on "stuff" than at any other time in our lives, combined. But, for me, its about making life easier. I refuse to do the mental self flagellation over things I want. I feel that I deserve it. I feel that Jess deserves it. We've both struggled and I don't think there is a reason for us to do with less now because we don't have to.

Could we live with less? Certainly. Are there times when we do? Yep.

The 25 yr+ dishwasher exploded all over the kitchen floor about a month ago. We had our handyfella haul it away. We haven't rushed to purchase another because when we do, I am likely to replace the existing range with a mondo matching mack-daddy gas range and new fridge. There is nothing wrong with the range or fridge other than we both prefer cooking with gas and we both think the mammoth older side-by-side is just too big and not practical for us.

Until we come to the "justification" part of the mental purchase process, we will continue to be well acquainted with the dishpan and dish drainer. Where's good ole Madge and her Palmolive???

I definitely now what you mean. Being raised poor and from the ghetto I thought I was a billionaire when I bought my first car. It was a hard ass climb and no one gave me nothing. I raised my son alone and when I start making big money I spoiled myself like crazy. Things are just different now for me. Don't think I didnt keep a "few" things. (wink) I kept a few push up lace bra's, matching panties, stockings and I don't wear bra and panties. (evil grin) Doesnt mean I won't put 'em on for the right person. I also kept a few shoes and bags. I do spoil myself and plan on getting away more. Is a day at the spa necessity? No but every now and then I think maybe. If it brings me joy and takes away stress its part of my health plan, however its highly unlikely you'll find me shopping again for $300.00 shoes.