Giving away things that once meant a lot to me, and no longer do, was making me feel a bit sad. I even thought momentarily 'what a waste of time' collecting (candlesticks and quilts) only to be considering giving them away now....
But surely not!
I learned so much, from books and museums and auction houses, I enjoyed the search in beautiful parts of the country, I met some wonderful people who are still friends. And earned a modest living.
They were about who I was then. I've outgrown them. I'm selecting just a few to keep - the ones with the strongest, happiest memories - the ones which still thrill me.
We change, we grow, and it makes sense that we want to change our environment and the things and memories that we surround ourselves with. Our tastes change. I find it useful to ask myself Would I buy it now? No need for guilt, or sadness. That was then and this is now I tell myself as I pass forward the things which I no longer want to keep. (I do keep photographs of them though).
Now, I want to be as involved, as enthusiastic, as excited and have as much fun.... just not by collecting things!
A few more wise words from Marie Kondo -
Really important things are not that great in number.
It is not our memories but the person we have become because of those past experiences that we should treasure.
Do you agree?
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