I made some reference in my last post about my things – memorabilia, books, clothes – that we moved last week from my apartment. I’m still busy trying to finish the floor, but boxes of my things are all over the house. I’ve found that the context has changed how I look at them. Next week the floor will be done and we will crack the garage and Sepi’s things – mostly furniture – will come out and go upstairs. There will then be lots of storage room for all of my boxes.
But now I think I will be letting go of much of it. I’ve had some discussions with friends about their experiences going through their parents’ house after their deaths. Much had to be thrown away. I’ve known for a long time that the same will be true when Mom and Dad pass on. Most of these things are interesting, up to a point. Taken in total, it’s too much.
Well, that day is not yet upon us, but my day is. We have a huge dumpster in front of our house and it must be returned by the end of the month. Many of my things will be in it.
The most difficult thing for me to do is to “let go.” It seems, I place “emotional values” to my things or stuff and that is the reason I have such a hard time letting go. For me, things bring back memories, help me remember people, places, events, trips, etc. At the same time, I should not consider all these hoarding as treasures. They are just stuff and will drag me down. Plus, I have less to worry if earthquake, fire, or some unforseen events come my way. Treasures are in my mind, in my heart, my eyesight, and on my touch. I carry them with me wherever I go. No one can take them away from me. They will not fall into disarray or decay, or discolor. You have done a great job in cataloging all your notes, memorabilias. and photos. Thank God we are in this tech age! Long ago, friends, who were generously helping me to shed 25 years of junk, (while I was kicking and screaming), taught me, that when my hands are full, I have no room to accept anything else to come in my life. The fact of the matter is that, when I am dead and gone, somebody, without any hesitation, will get rid of all these stuff for me. Therefore, why make life so difficult to my friends and family that I dearly love? Most importantly, I better enjoy the peace and tranquility I will experience when I start practicing the true meaning of “Less is More,”