Sunday, February 24, 2008

Food for thought

I read a thread on my Country Living forum this morning that got me thinking.  Click HERE to see the whole topic.  If you'd rather not click on the link, here's the question:  "If you were given $5,000 that you had to spend (it cannot be put in savings or invested) what would you do with it?"

That question made me realize that Cliff and I have finally gotten every material thing we want OR need.  There was a time when I'd have used it for some remodeling, but we've both come to the conclusion that our time here is so short, and our house in so much need of repair, that we're not going to worry about it.  That decision has brought about a remarkable sense of satisfaction and peace of mind on my part, because once we got that out of the way, I have everything I need and want.  And when we're so infirm we can't do upkeep on this place, we'll have a house that needs no remodeling.

Amazing.  And all this time I thought I'd only achieve this sort of contentment if we won the lottery.

Oh, I'm "Donna from Mo" on that board, so you can see what Cliff and I chose to do with the money.



11 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh, that's easy for me.  There are many things we want, but when I pose the question do I really need it or do I just want it?  I find I don't really need what I really want, usually.  So, I'd give it to charity.  

Anonymous said...

My wants far exceed my needs (after I've been to Mexico, this was really obvious)...so I'd just do something frivolous like shopping for my family...

~Amy

Anonymous said...

I would probably have a tiled step in shower built. As Ken and I get older it will be hard for us to step into the tub shower. Helen

Anonymous said...

OH that would be a BIG "catch up on bills" for us!!!  

Anonymous said...

As a matter of fact I was given money recently and I'm giving part to charity and the rest to my children.  It'll be helping some and my Christmas present to others. I like you am content and have what is needed.  It is a grand feeling. 'On Ya' - ma

Anonymous said...

Bills, but maybe blow $100 or so. LOL

Anonymous said...

I would get my house painted. That would take about $3-$4000 of it. The last $1000 I would probably by a new couch. Yep...that's what I would do.
OR...I'd take the last $1000 and take my son on a trip. But, for sure get the house painted.
This was fun to think about.
Pam

Anonymous said...

It seems to be working.  It is interesting that at least one person voted for each thing you had listed.
Lori

Anonymous said...

since we already have plans in the offing to remodel the bathroom/laundry room....and also add some features to the kitchen in the house....that seems to be the best place to put it...and in the voting I was happy to see that some other folks were doing the same thing....hugs...Ora

Anonymous said...

DONNA YOU SHOULD PAY BILLS THAT IS WHAT I WOULD DO  THIS IS JO

Anonymous said...

Bills and a car.