The American Dream - buying without regard

In my very first post I talked about The New York Times article that got me thinking about simplifying.  One point brought up in the article was about 'conspicuous consumerism--buying without regard.'  Apparently this was a huge thing in the 90's with the breakout of Starbucks and an increase in credit card use.  This is a method of buying for visualized luxury, showing society you are 'up with the times.'



Since I was really young during that time I don't quite remember the roaring nineties of buy whatever you want.  My first thought was "I don't do that, I don't care about what other people think of me, let alone my possessions."  And then I took a quick look of my surroundings.  The first thing that popped into my mind was our current residence.  My better half and myself are currently renting a pretty big old house.  While our reasoning seemed valid at the time (too many belongings, extra room for visitors, a backyard for the puppy) it seems in hind-sight we were trying to keep up with the Joneses.  Especially me.  If I were honest with myself, my thoughts were there was no way I could go back to an apartment.  I am a professional!  We must have room for visitors and be able to show I can be a good hostess.  I need my own bathroom.  I have tons of stuff and I am NOT taking the puppy on a leash out in the rain.....

The puppy

After that initial first look I shamefully covered my face with a pillow and went to sleep.  I am hanging my head as I post this confession this morning.  I've realized maybe I am further interwoven into the society of consumerism than I wanted to admit at first.  But I have renewed strength with the dawn.  This is the whole reason for the journey, right?  Working through my past of consumerism and starting a new chapter.  Boy is this going to be a long journey....

Squelching my pride,
lg