We all have complicated relationships with our stuff.
Our stuff is more than a collection of inanimate objects. The things we have in our house become part of our life, sharing in the ups and downs, playing important roles in poignant scenes. Our possessions create a backdrop that is mostly invisible but can suddenly invoke sharp memories.
Our stuff reminds us of many things: Hopes. Expectations. Dreams. Loss. Joy.
No wonder stuff can be so hard to get rid of. It can feel like a betrayal.
But that doesn’t mean we can’t or shouldn’t let go.
In real relationships with actual humans we sometimes face times where for our own good we must say goodbye. Breakups happen. They are difficult, but necessary.
It may be that letting go of certain items feels as painful as a breakup. If so, writing a letter to our stuff may help us find peace in saying goodbye.
In that spirit, I offer the following letter to the stuff in my house I find difficult to part with.
Dear stuff,
Thanks for being there when I needed you. Thanks for brightening my day, adding the perfect touch to my house or wardrobe. Thanks for doing the job you were designed to do better than any other stuff I own. Thanks for participating in so many pieces of my life—and the lives of my husband, children, pets, friends.
So many good memories.
But you know what? I can keep the memories without tripping over you every time I open the closet. I don’t need to hoard you in the attic, afraid that sending you on your way will somehow make me forget the chapters in my life where you played such a big part.
If I truly appreciate how well you were designed and how much I enjoyed using you (back when you were such a big help) then I should be eager to share you with others who need you more than I do at this stage of my life. Isn’t it better for you to feel useful to someone else rather than sitting in a dark closet wondering if I’ll ever need you again?
I’m not the same girl I was ten years ago. I want freedom to try out a new look, adapt a room to new uses, and explore new hobbies (which means boxes of new tools and supplies that need a home on some shelf or other). So here’s the deal: I need room to enjoy my new things. That means it’s time for you and me to say goodbye.
Sincerely,
Lisa
- I hope you bring joy and happy memories to your new owners.
This is great! Thanks, Lisa!
You’re welcome. I ran across the idea on a blog I follow and thought it was worth passing on. Much as I enjoy reducing clutter, I know how hard it is to part with certain things.