Letters to the Editor
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Over 45? Pay Attention
As my friends and I have aged, I've noticed our households are brimming with stuff. Not good stuff,either. Old computers, yellowing magazines, tatty clothes. Its not like we don't have new computers, fresh magazines and stylish clothes. It is not because our parents were raised during the depression. It is not because that item might be useful someday. Its just that we forget the notion of depreciation on these things we paid money for. I recall that, when I was younger, I found middle aged and elderly people's houses depressing - all those yellowing books, clutter and worn out furnishings.
I hit the wall when I decided I needed a new house because my house was too small. I went and looked at larger houses and realized that I'd have to pay 300K over my equity to get a new house.
I went home, looked at my impressive collection of Shit and embarked on a campaign to get rid of it. Two boxes of Shit a day went to recycling, friends, the curb, Urban Ore and so on. After one year, I had cleared out so much space that my house was suddenly massive. I was able to have a young relative live with me for two years, which gave me great joy.
I am continuing to de-Shit my house and might use that spare bedroom to do something like fostering kittens or having overnight guests.
Part of my campaign involves not buying things in the first place. I'm a member of two libraries and the time I save not shopping allows me to do volunteer work.
I recommend it. Don't become a prisoner of your Shit.