“If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive.”
This bit of wisdom, along with others, was sent to me by a far-away friend who reads my columns but it got me thinking about all the things that I can’t afford. Some folks might call me cheap. The ones that are more polite would say frugal. No excuses for that; in the world I grew up in, we all pinched every penny. Some of what’s too expensive is still about money, but more of it is about ideas, peace, and integrity.
I can’t afford:
Most of what passes for news programs.
To look ahead at weather forecasts if I’m able to stay safe at home.
Political discussions with someone who’s determined to change my values.
To answer the phone if I don’t recognize a number.
Facebook. I don’t need more details of my family’s lives to worry about.
To check out what’s on sale this week. If I didn’t know I needed it, I don’t need it.
To take someone’s word for something—not doing my own homework.
Fear that’s based on “what might happen.”
Any of the products that are advertised on TV.
This is only a partial list, and it may change on any given day. Your list may look a lot different, but the point is that peace of mind should be a priority for all of us. Hardly anyone in our world today wants us to have that peace; most have some product or idea to sell, and they are masters of persuasion. Thankfully, we aren’t defenseless.
I know you’re tired of hearing my gratitude mantra so here’s another avenue to explore. Do something to improve another person’s day. Make a phone call, hold the door, say “have a nice day,” and smile. Make a favorite meal for your family, give someone a ride, drop off a plate of cookies, donate that extra stuff in your closet to Goodwill. Volunteer at the food pantry, say some extra prayers, and hug a teenager, whether they want to be hugged or not. You have a lot to share that will enhance the lives of those you meet, and the bonus is that you’ll be richer for that sharing.
Meet me here next week and, meanwhile, do your best. Someone might like it.