Dear Colleayn,

STUFF,

STUFF, STUFF.

Even that word evokes a certain feeling for me! I don’t know about others, but “stuff” to me means something I probably don’t need. I worked in retail a long time ago and we were told not to call any of the merchandise “stuff” when talking with a customer. And the reasoning explained was that “stuff” would mean something they did not need.

I don’t think we buy things that we consider “stuff” in the moment of buying; I think we have a feeling that is evoked when we buy anything. But the things that become “stuff” were often things purchased from a feeling of lack, or a void, or feelings that are now in the past. Things purchased that spark joy that lasts over time were likely purchased while feeling a more positive feeling like joy, excitement, celebration, etc. When we separate the things around us into those that spark joy versus just the “stuff,” we can really get to know what nourishes us and what needs to go.

Have you ever examined your own stuff, like Colleayn is suggesting? I did after reading her question, and oh my goodness do I own “stuff” too — “stuff” that I have no idea why I own it. I was able to reflect on the things I own that I do not consider just “stuff” and that does actually spark joy, and for me that is books. I love being with and around books. It makes me think of all the people who poured themselves into their writing and turned their thoughts into something tangible. I did however find many things that is just “stuff” to me. I would encourage all of us to take a deeper look at the things around us, both at home and work, and ask Colleayn’s question of ourselves, “Why do I even own this?” It is hard to consider getting rid of “stuff” that appears to be perfectly good, but really, we should try to understand that the getting rid of “stuff” is not the real issue. The real issue was acquiring perfectly good “stuff” when we really didn’t need it. I think if we spend time unpacking why we buy things that become “just stuff,” we will learn more about where we feel lack and where we feel abundance.

As we will soon enter holiday gifting season, may we consider Colleayn’s question of, “Why do I even own this?” and be intentional about gift-giving. I don’t want our gifts to become someone else’s “stuff.” So, let’s not just buy something to buy something, let’s be as intentional with gifting as possible.

YOUR FRIEND,Jess

I have started facilitating a “Dear Wondering Women” space through writing, in Area Women, where we can join in honest, real and love-filled conversation around our shared wonderings. Write to me with your “wondering whys.” Let’s collectively as women share this wonder-filled journey of life together! I will respond to a reader’s “wondering why” in each issue. You can email them to me at wonderingwhywithjess@outlook.com. Can’t wait to connect! Your “wondering why” may be featured in an upcoming issue! [ aw ]

Bekah Brunstetter

OCT 8-24

Sunday Matinées Oct 17 & 24

Ring in the Holidays with A Holiday Cabaret

B B B B B B B B B

Directed by Pam Strait NOV 26 - DEC 12

Sunday Matinées Dec 5 & 12

Come see what’s cooking at season 19 • 2021/22

Ticket Info at TheatreB.org