Changing Perspectives

Last Friday, I drove past a sign for an estate sale in one of my favorite neighborhoods, so I had to stop, of course.😀 It was at a big, beautiful colonial house that we’d driven past many times.  You see, one of the things Scott and I have loved doing this past year, and even during the Covid lockdown, is driving around through different neighborhoods.  This is one we drove through often because we both love it. 

As I walked through this house, I found myself wondering what happened to the people that had lived there.  Just by all the stuff they were selling, it was obvious that it had been an older couple.  I thought, “Are they still living?”  “Are they in assisted living?” “Did they just downsize?”

As I walked through room after room and into the beautiful backyard and detached apartment, I couldn’t get over how much stuff they had!  It made me sad to think they’d acquired all these things and their kids probably came and took the few things they wanted, and left the rest to some random strangers.  Actually, much of it that didn’t sell, probably ended up being donated or trashed, if I’m guessing.

I left that sale without buying anything, but with all kinds of feelings.  This past year has changed me, no doubt.  I’m more reflective and conscious of how fragile life is.  I mean, I lost my mom when I was 12, so I’ve always been aware of how precious life is. But this year has expanded that awareness. 

I love my home and I love having nice things, but those things really don’t matter in the grand scheme of life.  Someday, they will all be gone, as will I.  My kids will take a few things they want and the rest, who knows?  What I do know is that my family and friends matter, and time is precious. 

One year ago, when I heard the word “cancer,” nothing else mattered but helping Scott get healthy again.  It truly was a wakeup call that changed my focus and my purpose.  I’m still working on and trying to figure out how to simplify.  We live in a world of “build bigger and acquire more.”  Status can be stifling.  It breeds discontent.  I’m working on contentment in my life, which I know breeds calmness. Stuff doesn’t last, but sentiments do.❤️

—Katie