If there is one bit of worldly wisdom I wish I could convey to my younger self, it is this: don’t be afraid to spend your time and money on experiences.
It’s something it has taken me far too long to learn. It just seemed almost wrong to spend money on trips or concerts or other intangibles that left you with nothing–nothing, that is, except memories.
There is a paradox there, however: it may seem that experiences are fleeting while objects endure, but in our memories, it’s just the opposite.
On top of that, things can weigh heavily on our homes and minds, especially as the years go on and despite our best efforts, they accumulate.
I’m at a point now where I’m concentrating on letting go. Part of this is yet another attempt to work on my poor organizing skills. But another part is realizing there’s a certain peace, a certain freedom in only having what you need, only buying and using things you really want.
I’m not really a materialistic person, I swear. Yes, I like beautiful instruments and other objects. I appreciate good tools. There are things worth having.
But as I pass into another phase of life, I want to pare down, concentrate on what matters, spend more time and money on making memories, not on gathering things.
Unfortunately I can’t go back in time to straighten myself out:
I can’t tell myself to buy fewer instruments/guitars (except that one, because man…) and spend more time and money on camps and festivals and lessons.
Take the younger siblings camping.
Take more road trips, just to explore and appreciate.
Take a cooking class, just for the fun of it.
Take lots of classes just for fun of it.
Find ways to take trips, even if I have to go alone.
Try that restaurant, even if I have to go alone.
Buy flowers once in awhile, even if they’ll fade away.
Pay attention.
I’m a little late to the ball game. But I’m trying to embrace experiences a bit more. Don’t let week after week after week slip by unlived in. Call people more. Spend more time with family and friends. Observe the seasons. Check out nearby places. Do things. Learn, even if what I’m learning isn’t “useful.” Stay curious.
And remember.
Enough Ice Cream 