Boxes and Boxes of Stuff

 

“A house is just a place to keep your stuff while you go out and get more stuff.” – George Carlin.

 

Fourteen years ago, I transitioned from my job, sold my home and stored a house-full of furniture and boxes in my dad’s basement; I joined the family of Natural Awakenings publishers and moved into a small apartment near Harrisburg to launch this magazine. While that furniture is currently in use, many of those boxes—with contents untouched for 14 years—are still waiting for me to sort through them. I moved some of the unpacked boxes with me, to and from several apartments over several years, and then back to my dad’s basement, where they sit today, still waiting to be opened and their contents assessed and handled accordingly.

 

When I recall and visualize how I moved boxes from house to apartment to house, several times without even opening them, it is laughable and downright comedic. Visit Tinyurl.com/CarlinsStuff to see George Carlin's five-minute classic standup routine about the importance of “Stuff” in our lives.

 

Although I’m currently doing my best to streamline my possessions, lighten my physical and carbon footprint, live a more eco-conscious lifestyle and transition to a more minimalistic approach, I am challenged daily by how much stuff has accumulated in my house and my life. I wonder what it would be like to live with only essential possessions and the impact it would have on my mental health, creativity, productivity and happiness.

 

These days, when I hear the word minimalism, a distinct visual image comes to mind. A recent 60 Minutes episode featured music producer Rick Rubin in his Malibu music studio, Shangri La. The now sparsely appointed bungalow, clean, bright and open, gained original notoriety in the 1960’s when Bob Dylan and The Band recorded there. In addition to the appealing simplicity and stark appearance of the minimalist decor, the space is ultra-conducive to minimizing distractions and fostering creativity. Visit Tinyurl.com/ShangriLaTour.

 

I spoke with my sister recently, and our conversation turned to how we are both focusing on eliminating clutter in our households and lives. I’m guessing many of you are nodding in agreement that the elimination of clutter is something you are also considering or in the midst of doing. After all, decluttering and shifting toward minimalism can simplify physical, mental and emotional spaces, leading to a more organized and fulfilling life. By reassessing the true significance of sentimental items and adopting intentional consumption, we can create an environment that fosters clarity and well-being, clearing the way for us to feel good, live simply and laugh more.