I think a lot of what was summarized in this thread can be applied to the other thread (the one where we're all bitching about Paris Hilton
) You can seemingly have everything, but it's never enough & it won't necessarily make you happy or even satisfied.
ITA that we are way too materialistic. I don't really mean that we want the best & the most beutiful & priciest, but we want and have to much STUFF! Look around your house or apartment today & think about all the STUFF you have there. I do, and it makes me sick.
I'm trying really hard to change my lifestyle, as far as redefining want vs. need. I've most improved when it comes to small things - I don't buy new clothes very often anymore - I've been the same size for years, why should I waste money on stuff wthat will be dated in 6 months? I don't by knick-knacks & tchochkis for my house anymore - I have plenty & I certainly don't need new crap. I don't take free **** people are handing out unless I might actually use it (pens are cool, but wtf am I going to do with another caledar?) I always ask myself "do I need this, will I actually use it?" I buy most CDs & videos used, if at all.
But the other, bigger, things are proving more difficult. Did I really need a newer car? No. I justify it by saying that the old one long paid off, almost 10 years old, and I could still sell it for a decent amount of $$$ to put down on another one; plus repair costs were getting up there & eventually something major was bound to happen to it. But I didn't really
need a different car.
Did I need to go to Vegas to see Stevie? Absolutely NOT. I had no justification for this, yet I don't regret it. It didn't really put me into debt, I saw 2 great shows AND I met a bunch of fantastic people, many of whom I now consider friends, rather than just internet acquaintances. So although I spent some cash & did something selfish, I have lifelong memories of one of the best ties of my life.
I won't keep rambling, but you get my drift (I hope.) I'm trying not to be a wasteful, or selfish, or cruel, or ignorant person. BUT like Sparky said in another thread - you can't beat yourself up over every little thing. Should I feel guilty that I live in a house that I worked hard for & bought, while others sleep on the street? I feel BLESSED for the life I have, and I thank God (whoever that is) for it often. I am thankful. But not guilty.
I will not make myself miserable for having a good decent life. If you do that, you will never leave your house. You will never go out to eat. You will never see a movie, or go camping, or go to a concert. And there's no reason you shouldn't. I just wish people were less flippant about it, and more grateful & aware that not everyone CAN do those things.