A few thoughts…
This summer has been a journey of growth for me. I graduated with my Associates degree— pics to come soon. I’m moving into my bachelors this autumn. I have done a lot of soul searching. You see, in the last couple of years, I’ve lost 3/4 of my family. I’ve seen too much loss and death. And although I am going to be a therapist one day, I’ve also gone back to therapy myself to help deal with the fallout from all that loss. If anyone sees this, you’re probably wondering who the heck I am and at this point, I guess I really need to do an introductory post next, huh? 😆 My point is, I am so soul deep, doggone tired of competing and feeling like I need to spend, keep up with my friends, or be someone I am not. Possessions only matter to me in so much that they are useful, sentimental, or Both. I do a lot of Upcycling, instead of going out and buying new. Most new things are poorly made junk anyhow! Give me a slightly broken or well loved nightstand made before 1970 and let me do my thing and I am over the moon! Anyway, I am rambling. AGAIN. As usual. My point is this. This summer, I took trips with loved ones that only monetarily cost me gas and food. We saw the ocean and the sunset over Sand Beach in Acadia National Park. We drove the winding roads of Maines mountains and had conversation and laughs! We went to concerts, but small venue, $30 ticket concerts of 1990s and 2000s bands that own our hearts. Intimate venues are superior to large in so many ways anyway, they’re inexpensive and you usually meet the bands. We actually hung out with Sponge, Tantric, Aedema, Powerman5000, Clozure, and more! I made memories with my son that I hope he will never forget and I know I will never forget. Can we get back to making memories, and not focusing on consumerism? PLEASE!?! Sigh. And real talk—Times are tough for so many people financially right now too. No one should feel the need to compete with who can spend more. Let’s save more! But still DO more. And make memories. #summerdiary #lemon8contest #makememories #spendlessdomore
This summer was not just about graduations and transitions; it was also a time for rediscovering the essence of life through meaningful connections and experiences. Why do we often find ourselves entangled in the web of consumerism? It can be overwhelming, especially during tough financial times. However, this summer taught me that true fulfillment comes from spending quality time with loved ones. Trips to beautiful places like Acadia National Park, where we elegantly watched the sunset, reminded me of the priceless nature of shared memories. Intimate concerts, with tickets often less than dinner prices, became cherished moments rather than mere transactions. Engaging with bands and connecting with their music brought joy that far outshone the fleeting pleasure of acquiring material items. This revelation can resonate with anyone striving for a more meaningful life. Practicing mindfulness during these experiences enhances our gratitude, allowing us to appreciate the ordinary. As we navigate the complexities of life and seek to define our identities, we must remember to cherish small moments. Let’s focus on building relationships and creating legacies through memories rather than material goods. Embrace the idea that less can be more, and add depth to your life experiences by investing in relationships and shared moments that will last a lifetime.
