I recently listened to a podcast by Alan Watts. If you haven't, listened to Alan Watts you should. He is the quintessential Zen expert! During this recent podcast, he talked about how there is a perception that Americans are materialists. Watts argues that Americans aren't materialists that, in fact, we are material haters!
As of last week, I realized how many "things" I own and that if I devote the time and attention my things deserve how much longer they will last. Also, I'll learn how better to service my stuff. Finally, I feel that my attention will warrant a greater understanding of what it means to CARE. Needless to say, this has done wonders for my wife - I've been doing a lot of chores lately...
"Americans are not material lovers they are material haters! Just look at Los Angeles"This quote spoke volumes to me. Not that I hate Los Angeles, but Watts is right. The entire city has grown in unnatural and unsustainable ways. According to Watts, if you're a material lover, you care intimately for the things you have/create. You devote the same respect for them as you would your own body. After hearing this, things changed for me.
As of last week, I realized how many "things" I own and that if I devote the time and attention my things deserve how much longer they will last. Also, I'll learn how better to service my stuff. Finally, I feel that my attention will warrant a greater understanding of what it means to CARE. Needless to say, this has done wonders for my wife - I've been doing a lot of chores lately...
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