Redefining the Meaning of Wealth

I have taken a break from posting this past month, so that I could catch up on “life things.” July 31 was my last official day at work, so I’ve been making that transition as well. After taking a little time for myself, I’m moving forward with my job search and figuring out exactly what I want to do. I’m excited about what lies ahead, even though I have no clue what that might be!

What is happening in our economy is no surprise to me. Several years ago, I saw the writing on the wall and began to emotionally prepare for the current sickness that plagues our system. Living in West Los Angeles, I was witness to the drunken party first hand. As property values exploded out of proportion with incomes, and people over-consumed at warp speed ahead, I knew it was only a matter of time before a major economic alignment would take place. LA was not the only partygoer- there were many more in attendance. In the end, I believe that a new economy will surface in our nation that will be more sustainable and will offer a more level playing field. However, reaching this point is going to take a major shift in our thinking. Since not a one of us has any control over how anyone else thinks, we can all start this shift in our own minds.

Now that my time is about to be spent searching for new work and finding ways to tighten the purse strings even more, an interesting mind shift is beginning to take place within me. I’m realizing how little I really need, or even want for that matter, to be happy. I like the simplicity of not owning too much “stuff”, and I like the fact that my precious energy is not wasted on shopping for non-necessity items. When I want a new outfit, I go shopping in my closet or trade clothes with a girlfriend. Instead of pouring over the realtor listings, I now spend more time reading, writing, and socializing with family and friends. I realized we don’t need cable when we can download shows from Hulu.com. Our beautiful home is more valuable to me than ever, and I have more time to sit quietly in our garden and enjoy the flowers. As long as I’m healthy, have love in my life, and my basic needs are met, I don’t have any problems at all.

As my husband and I continue to share one car and do our own housecleaning, I’m reminded of how much we can do without. Suddenly, the items and services I had wanted to purchase seem so unimportant. Family, friends, and my spiritual journey are my main priority now. I’ve even romped up my efforts to de-clutter our home as much as possible, because all the unnecessary things just seem to interfere with enjoying life to the fullest. I am now traveling through life much lighter and much happier. Less is definitely more.