(One stuff I like is a soy, no-whip peppermint mocha.)Having things makes me feel safe. I haven't always felt that way, though. Growing up, I was in a kind-of big family in kind-of small house occupied by a herd of kind-of pack rats. I swore that when I was on my own, I'd have a bed, a dresser with my clothes, and maybe a single book.
That was it.
Anyone who has ever hung out in my apartment or ridden in my car knows I failed to keep that solemn childhood vow.
So moving is difficult, because it means choosing what is worth keeping and what needs to be tossed. And the time frame that I gave myself (uh, super-super short) necessitates quick decisions. I barely have time to say goodbye to everyone I love, so you can bet I don't have time to sell things on Craigslist. What does this mean? It means I've giving almost everything away.
I'm giving away books. I'm giving away teaching jobs. I'm giving away clothes, and vases, and miscellaneous canned food (tangent: why did I buy canned asparagus?).
In a seems-more-than-coincidental twist, giving away Things I Want To Keep is freeing me. And more than any pine scent, peppermint mocha, mall Santa's Shop or holiday melody, this process of giving important stuff has excited me for Christmas.
I didn't expect to find joy here. So while I still like my stuff, I'm thankful to let it go.
Where are you unexpectedly discovering bits of holiday spirit?
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8 comments:
I unexpectedly found some Christmas joy writing my latest blog post. LOL!
But I know how you feel. I feel so good when I purge a bunch of unneeded things from my house. Keep purging, my friend. Just don't binge first.
I've found it spiritually healthy to go through that process. Sort of makes moving worth it, I guess.
I went to the mall the other day, and someone asked me for some money- and I felt giving; and I was like, 'ah, Christmas is here'.
Not that I'm greedy, and don't give when it's not Christmas.
Most nights, I make myself some very chocolatey hot chocolate with a butt-load of tiny marshmallows.
I do this, despite the fact that I know I will have to pee at 2am.
Why? Because it's Christmas, damn it!
And as someone who has moved 3 times in the last 2 years, I know exactly what you mean.
I'm glad you have your soy, no whip, peppermint mocha to get you through!
I totally need to purge my closet. You've inspired me!
I found Christmas joy in the fact that this year it seems I'm actually enjoying the snow. Hope it actually lasts till Christmas...
Some more Christmas joy comes from the fact that I can't wait to feel said joy in NYC. Hurray!
But enough about me!
Girl, I know how you feel. Moving sucks. And I guess it sucks more for a gal like me, who is incapable of giving her stuff away. Therefore I hope we'll be living in Montreal till we're retired.
Alex
some things I just cannot get rid of ...but others are a quick decision and I never look back. Glad it's been a freeing experience for you. Freedom is good. :) Happy Friday!
I'm finding joy in church again (or at least lots more tolerance!) since my grandpa's death-- that and friends of mine, who are being so sweet lately. Hope you're having a good weekend :)
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