Stuff

What stuff are you lugging?

I have been feeling very melancholy accepting this chair has reached the end of its life. Letting go has been difficult. I had this chair most of my life. It was very comfortable and held special memories, like my mom and I picking out the flowered fabric while renovating it over 25 years ago. I moved it multiple times, despite our pets chewing and scratching it to shreds. I tried unsuccessfully to find a home for it with someone who would nurse it back to life. It sits now at the curb waiting for tomorrow’s garbage pickup. I feel sad.

I believe my home is a metaphor for my self. This chair reminds me of the stuff I carry with me each day, not only in my house but also in my mind, that may no longer be of use. I tote from place to place heavy and well-worn old beliefs, assumptions, ideas, habits, and feelings. How often have I lugged these without questioning whether they continue to serve my best interests? I am letting go of several things in our home as we prepare to move. It might just be time to reflect on my interior landscape and consider letting go of old ideas, feelings, habits, and ways of thinking and being. They may have served me well once, even been renovated over the years, and be tied with beloved memories. The memories of this chair will remain with me but my space is a lot lighter now. Ironically, if you knew my mom, you would know she would have recommended weeding it out years ago! Ah, lesson learned; thanks mom! My heart smiles.

What stuff are you carrying, whether actual or within yourself, that might be weighing you down? What could you create if you let it go? How can you hold onto the beloved and cherished memories while letting go of what no longer serves your highest good? Who will support you in that process?