I decided that I had one too many large tables this week thats primary function just served to collect plates and trash.
I got rid of it and sort of had an existential moment of realization. I'm scraping the barrel on minimalism. Last year I moved into a small tent full time. Downsized my bed to a cot, made my own solar system, pump my water, and got rid of all my trinkets and toys.
I just don't have much left to get rid of. Not much left to store or organize. No need for large tables, my smaller collapsable tables do what I need. All thats left is bare essential appliances, clothing, bedding, and daily use devices. just a little more I wouldn't even need a shelf anymore.
I feel free. Like a weight is being lifted off of me. Possessing means maintenance and emotional attachment to objects. Each thing I get rid of feels like a win, like I'm letting go of something that I didn't really need. The few things that stay I truly appreciate for what they provide me in life.
But I feel like I'm kind of weird for feeling these way. Its the societal norm to collect things, compare social status with objects, show off your ideaologoies and interest by decorations. The 'dream' for most people is a big home to fill with a spouce, kids, and things.
People get mad at the idea of 'pod life' and 'owning nothing and being happy', which I understand its about being g forced into poverty not minimalistic zen type letting go of attachment. But I personally feel like theres too much hoarding and consumerism in daily life.
I wish that nomadic minimal lifestyles were looked better upon by society and not equated to homelessness. I don't have any stuff tying me down I want to explore my country without monthly apartment rents in an old van. Why is that wrong? Because I'm not making taxable property income or stimulating the economy with constant purchase?
Why did you downsize the bed - is it just a matter of space for you at that point?
I used to be pretty big on minimalism as a younger man, around the time the Minimalists were blogging (and before they became a business in their own right). I was single, rented, and it made my life much easier. But I found after a while that the "purging" was sort of a way to avoid living with myself (or to obsess over the wrong stuff).
I still like it but the collection of stuff and things around me are a way to connect with who I was, and the life I've lived, and am living. And it's a nice way to share a space with my partner. Even if her coffee table is too big.
I had planned on traveling in my minivan with a cot and bed for an extended period of time at some point so wanted to make sure I got something I could use in multiple scenarios. Also it was what I could afford at the time within budget. The space and ease of movement are big bonuses to me.
Thanks for providing your perspective and personal insights!
Fair enough! I know some people who have plenty of space but prefer small furniture because of the increase in floor space it gives them - but beds are something I mever factored into my practice of minimalism!