Simplify
You may have read a previous entry where I asked, how can one learn to live simply in our materialistic culture? Materialism is such an evil-sounding word. I didn't grow up in a wealthy family. Neither did my parents. One grandpa was a plumber and the other an electrical engineer/sales rep. My dad is also an electrical engineer and has served faithfully as an electrician/maintenance man for the same Christian organization all his life. Wealth has never flowed freely through the Newland/Jardine families (that I know of).
"Wealthy" is such a relative term though! Maybe you've heard the statistic that we average Americans are wealthier than 95% of the world's population! We run to Walmart as soon as we run out of something. Our grocery stores are FULL of food, and perishable items are thrown out every day. We buy each other gifts for birthdays and holidays. Our houses are full of things; our garages or sheds are full of more things.
Is there a way to break the cycle? Are there some practical ideas for changing some of our habits? I'm sure there's some good books on the subject. I need to find them.
I've had a few respond (and maybe this entry will spark more response). Here are their thoughts:
*Learn to get by with less. I love this one for my situation, because I'll be arriving in Mwanza in a few months with only three 3 pieces of luggage. I'll be purchasing all appliances and furniture in Mwanza. This friend suggested- only buy the bare essentials for the first month or so, and see what you can live without.
*Be creative. What do I already have that could be used for something else? e.g. plastic trunks set on end and covered with a cloth make great lamp tables. :-)
What are your thoughts on the subject? Any book recommendations?