Title: Not So Black Friday
Category: happy
Blog Entry: I have to admit that when I turned on the news this morning and saw the "Black Friday" crowds gathering, I wanted to join them. Ordinarily I avoid crowds, but I do love the festive atmosphere during the holidays, and have been guilty of a lot of retail therapy lately.
The internet, which has allowed me to 'meet' lots of interesting people I never would have otherwise, has also been a source of great temptation. As a result, I have a large wardrobe of very nice (though bargain-priced) clothes I don't really need. Cutting up my credit cards wouldn't help, because I memorized the number long ago. I'm not in debt, so no real harm done, just a slightly guilty conscience.
Anyway, the point I'm getting at is that instead of going shopping, I went hiking with my sketchpad. It was a lot of work to get ready: pack a lunch, dig out my winter hiking clothes, assemble the art supplies, etc. I was lazy (still tired from Thanksgiving) and had to force myself to do it. But it was a clear, cold, silent day up on the mountain, and those few hours filled my soul like nothing else can. When I got home afterwards, I was calm and fulfilled. If I had gone shopping instead, well, you can imagine what kind of
shape I'd be in.
The question is: how often do you do the easy thing that might be fun in the short term, but ultimately not good for you, rather than do what you know would be healthier in the long term? Something to think about.
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