Credit to the ancient philosopher, Plato: “The greatest wealth is to learn to live with little.” But doesn’t that run counter to prevailing theories of economics: “The more you have, the richer you are.” In addressing this very real human tendency, Jesus cautioned people about building bigger barns. And that’s because there is a direct relationship between accumulating and appreciating. Do I really appreciate that box of dishes in the back corner of my self-storage unit? I haven’t opened the box in the last five years, but I’m not ready to let it go. I’ll never use the dishes. I think I got them when Aunt Sarah died, or my cousin Brenda. I think. Anyway, it’s nice to have some “spares” in case I host a large crowd. The last time I hosted a large crowd? Never mind. If I de-accumulated those dishes then I would be obligated to point out that no one needs 37 screwdrivers. Two can play this game.
And “game” it is. Maybe it’s time to appreciate quality instead of quantity. Living with less than the “prescribed need” may seem strange until that day when you hold an item of genuine value and say to yourself: “I never noticed the beauty of this object. Look at the craftsmanship. I really appreciate its presence in my life.”
Maybe a better way of putting it is like this: (Sorry, Plato) “The greatest wealth is to learn to live with enough.” And how much is “enough?” Usually just a little less than I have. Accumulating for the sake of having, possessing, undermines Appreciating. Now about those dishes.
Shining Spirit 
Speaking of ‘enough’ Roger – did you get enough sleep last night – I mean 4:40 am is kind of early. If not enough sleep, you can always get some more with a little nap. Love Ya,
4 is the usual wake up time. Naps are my best friends. Not counting my friendship with you, of course.