i just got done reading a guest post over at a soft place to land labeled, the no-spend challenge {you should check it out - sounds amazing}. the words pierced just like they were supposed to...worming their way into my innards and settling in for a good mull-over.
honestly, i've been having a hard time in general with just material stuff. this whole packing process has really had my wheels turning. i've been trying to convince myself to look at my belongings with different lenses. we are so thrilled to have received our housing in texas, which leads to a new excitement of downsizing. now, if only i could let go and not have these ridiculous feelings over toys, vases and knick-knacks. i mean, seriously...knick-knacks? what has my world come to when i spend my time agonizing over what to keep and what to get rid of?
another post that uncomfortably hit home was remnants found over at [pieces] {it's a good thing, j' - promise}. is there some kind of message i'm supposed to be adapting here? because i'm beginning to think i need to be taking this a little more seriously. i wouldn't consider myself a big spender, but there are always things that surface when you take on a challenge like the no-spend challenge {you know the saying: "things always add up"}. even like they said, it's not a new concept, but one that i think i need to do to gain that new perspective on what i currently have. i think it will give me a new appreciation for the free things in life. it will give me the chance to pick up those new lenses to gaze at our home with fresh light. it will sensitize me to what's really important and make it easier to say "so long!" to those books, baskets, and baby toys.
overall, i think it will just be plain good to do. like a cleansing detox. a ridding of the looming "junk drawer", if you will. even though the stuff i'm talking about would not be labeled as suitable junk - it's nice decor, but nice unnecessary decor. i've, also, always had access to livable storage space. somewhere to throw the clutter if it got too out of control until my next donation run. but where we're headed has no sense of what storage means. it's like a bad word in the 750 sq. ft. of space we'll be packed into. they don't have the ability to honor vast closet space, a utility room, or even a deck hosting a room on the back. i'm not complaining, really, i'm just realizing that i easily took for granted the beautiful concept of basements, attics, and extra closets.
i do need to let you know...in the moment, as i'm typing about all of this uncomfortable new behavior, my stomach is feeling a bit nauseous and unsettled. ridiculous, i know. i think the Lord has big plans for me. and i look forward to this new experience, our new move, to find out exactly what those big plans are.
and for now, i just need help deciding what to pack, what to keep in storage, and what to give away. like all good points made, there's something to say for a three-year storage pile - am i really going to miss those material things over that course of time? or will it be like christmas when i finally get to use it again? opening each box carefully with anticipation of what's on the other side of the duct tape? who knows. it really shouldn't be this big of a deal either. but it is. and it's just part of who i am, i guess. i have a dire need to hold onto my "cute" things for a little bit longer. but NO MORE buying! that is one thing i will try my darn best to kick. even though, i am dangerously attending the fabulous farm chicks show this weekend that is everything shabby chic and beautiful. i'm so excited i think i'm going to implode! maybe i'll reap more ideas than give money? yes, let's hope for that. somebody help me!
thank you to all that have given me a swift smack with your gentle and sweet reminders that stuff is just stuff. to j', for your inspiring words that always lead to encouragement. to kimba, for hosting wonderful words of wisdom. to sarah, for commenting on my earlier post with very helpful past experience, a prayer, and sense of confidence that i can do this. thank you! i want and need more...more words and helpful hints.
and no matter what...i plan on living this journey with joy! because yes, God is always good, even through the muck of materialism. *smiles sheepishly
you know, i was packing up a few more boxes last night & thought to myself: if i don't need this in the next year, WHY do i need this at all?! i'm sure you know the feeling...
ReplyDeleteit seems too easy to get attached to things/hobbies/stuff/kick-knacks...& in the end, they are just THINGS. things we can't take with us. but also keep in mind that they are things that just might make our lives richer, more enjoyable...make our memories more alive.
since i wrote about my "clothing" obsession, it has REALLY helped me stop buying things. i did buy one white tee shirt & gave away the older (slightly yellowed) ones to the homeless shelter. aside from that, i'm actually avoiding the mall...the clothing section in target...etc. i think that once we make it intentional (& public), God will bless that desire to grow closer to Him, to the people He's given us...instead of clinging on to the stuff we've filled our lives with.
another thought: have you reconsidered scrapbooking at all? SO MANY days i feel like it is a waste of resources...but i make the argument that i've already started & i can't stop now...
...just wondering ;)
it's funny that we all have our vices and different obsessions. mine mine is paper, pens and office supply types of things...i think you are doing great-and have been doing great this past year of getting rid of things and downsizing. when your three years is up {no, i didn't mean to make that sound like a prison sentense, but you know what i mean;)} think how much fun it will be to buy new things for your new home. {which is hopefully back in spokane!}
ReplyDeletekeep up the good work beth!