We are creatures of habit, comforted by familiar routines, and driven by homeostatic responses to maintain equilibrium. The world changes, we change, and what once brought a sense of security stops working. We must question our beliefs, values, goals, duties, obligations, hobbies, commitments, possessions, and even our relationships when they don’t deliver.
How do we handle old stuff? How do we release what no longer holds value as we reach for the new, the improved and updated, and the innovative? Items received as gifts can create feelings of guilt when we contemplate disposing of them. Things we grew up with cause nostalgia to rear its ugly head. Then there are the hard decisions. We bought the perfect piece they guaranteed would change our life until it didn’t. Dumping the item means admitting we made a mistake.
We carry baggage, burdens collected over many years, that we can’t seem to relinquish. My grandmother said we should use it up, wear it out, or pass it along. If something is not helping you move forward and attain your goals, it is hindering your progress. Letting reminders of the past go takes strength as we struggle to summon the courage to face a brighter future.
What weight are you carrying that is holding you back?
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Keep on writing.
Jo Hawk The Writer
Jo Hawk 
Good and Wise Words. Happy New Year.
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Happy New Year, LaDonna.
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In terms of real things, I’m looking at seventy-some boxes of books that need to go somewhere and somehow. They’re from offices (with shelves) I kept when working as a college teacher or a church educator. I don’t need so many books now to go to, though I’m still keeping plenty. In terms of unreal things that are still real, I’m trying to practice the notion that with age should come a willingness to release grievances.
It’s a good entry, Jo, as all your entries are. I guess I typically don’t comment on the image, but this one is especially, effectively illustrative.
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I never thought one could have too many books, until last year when I did a complete inventory of every book in the house. I carted 10 large banker boxes to Half Price Bookstore (they buy used books). It only made a small dent.
There is grace in letting go of past grievances. The process can be easy in theory but difficult to implement. A noble endeavor my friend. 👍💕
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Thank you. You’re right, it’s hard to do.
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Hello Jo,
How did you get up into my attic? You mean some of these treasures have to go?
I’ve always had a problem handling old stuff. As a result, it sabotages my writing. Stifles my creativity. I copied your entire post to my Commonplace Book.
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LOL Your attic, my basement, my mother’s garage, and my best friend’s storage shed. I’ve even heard stories of people renting entire storage lockers for the stuff they can’t imagine parting with. 😄😄
It does come at a cost though. I have set myself a goal of releasing 25 items every week. Maybe something like that would help you as well? 💕
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