In the event I had to quickly move to another country, I would take only two things-my cell phone and pictures of my children. I'm not attached to too many materials objects so everything, but these, could stay behind. I would explain that my phone can give me access to my children and mom who are the most important people in my life. Pictures of my children would give me memories of them throughout their lives. If told I had to give up one of the items I had been able to bring, I would feel as if I had totally lost control of my ability to make my own choices for my life. It would be very frustrating and hard to understand why I couldn't keep the few personal things I had. I would have a hard time understanding how my possessions would affect anyone else.
I realize that immigrants who relocate to other countries have to make choices about their possessions. My family doesn't put importance on things but on relationships so leaving things behind wouldn't be too hard for me but leaving those I love would be. I lived 2000 miles away from my family for 8 years and it was the lowest point in my life. Being close to family is what is important in my life, having things is not.
Kindred spirits, we are Laurie Parker! I feel the same way about stuff. In fact, I have been trying to lighten my load in the last few years by getting rid of a lot of it. "Would you move it?" is a guiding question as I go through closets and my adult children's bedrooms. Stuff can be stressful. Thanks for a great thumbs up by osmosis. Great to share the bloggosphere with you again this term. Looking forward to another good leg of the journey!
ReplyDeleteKaty