Redefining things…
Another common thread I see in this series. I find myself redefining things. Whether that’s redefining “need” versus “want,” redefining how I spend my time, redefining what’s important to me, or even redefining ideas like friendship, valuable inputs, and what my priorities are.
In my Thriving in the Holidays mini series I wrote about gift giving with your children. And for me when I went to write down a need for Cashel, I really had to think. I had to question what is actually a need, and what is a want. I want to model for my children knowing the difference. A need is not just something that we like “another one” of. In fact even as I re-read this paragraph before publishing this entry I find myself questioning if the “need” of a garbage can to use as a diaper pail is really a “need.” We have one in the “nursery” but don’t have one in Cashel’s room. We are constantly running dirty cloth diapers into the nursery and I do think there is a level of “need” here. But upon reading “Money Secrets of the Amish: Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving” By Lorilee Craker I’ve begun to ask myself if we can “use it up,” “wear it out,” “make do,” or “do without.” Already I see my thinking changing!
Here is an example of me redefining “need” in my own mind. I am not very good about drinking water. And of course when you’re pregnant that is especially important. I have found if I use one of those Starbucks cold cups I’m better at it. So in my mind I need another Starbucks cold cup. But truly I have two, three, or maybe even four somewhere in my home our vehicle at all times. That is definitely not a need.
I see a “steal of a deal” and the item can quickly become “a need.”
Or just because I watch the latest show and saw a new trend in scarves or chunky jewelry or boots does not mean I need a new one. I have plenty.
I do not need to run to the grocery store for ingredients, when I have a pantry full of things I could cook.
This is another principle explored further in “Money Secrets of the Amish: Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving” By Lorilee Craker. One of my favorite sections in the book is about “despoiling your children” and she talks a great deal about redefining needs and wants. About modeling for our children principles we wish to impart, especially when they are surrounded by an individualistic society like ours.
Is there something in your life that needs redefining? What might it be?
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