Opinion
Welch: Still waiting for spring cleaning
By Vanessa Welch
Like many other people, I have a hard time parting with old possessions. Most days I see clothes hanging in my closet that I haven’t worn in years, or childhood books hidden in a corner. This year spring cleaning never officially occurred in my room and even when my neighbors and family had a rummage sale, I had a hard time sorting through things.
I am not a pack rat, and my room is relatively clean. But when I browse through magazines or watch do-it-yourself decorating shows, I always find myself wondering how I can make my room less crowded and more unified.
Recently I decided to try something new. I made a promise to myself that I will not buy new possessions until I clean out everything I don’t need or want. Not only does it save money — it also forces me to reorganize and rethink about what is necessary to keep.
During this process, I’ve realized I’ve matured in that material possessions aren’t as important to me as they once were. No, I haven’t been able to part with much yet. However, in thinking about what’s truly necessary to survive I’ve found that I’m very fortunate.
Every day I come home to warm meals and a loving family. Sometimes I take it for granted, but having security is essential. Earlier this year a friend and I met someone from Europe, and he said something that will more than likely stick with me for the rest of my life. He noted how some Americans, especially celebrities, seem materialistic.
For him, the most important necessities in life included shelter, food and being able to have a beer with friends at the end of the day.
His comment reiterated the fact that many possessions are more than likely luxuries and not needs. For now, I’ve discovered I like clothes, make-up and music like many women, and am far from just having the bare essentials. But with basic needs covered and a few extras thrown in, I now realize not buying new things is not so bad after all.
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