This post was originally going to be about my lack of understanding (or approval, some may say) of the level of consumerism in this country. Today is one of those days where hundreds of people line up in hundreds of locations to buy something they probably don’t need and certainly don’t need to stand in line for. I could have made a big deal about it by saying such things as “this is why they hate us” or “this is why we’re in a recession” but in the end, why? Yes, I do believe those arguments are valid but why do I even care enough to make them? What has taken place in my life that has me wanting to play the role of a disapproving parent or the Thought Police?
The truth is, I often care entirely too much about what others are doing. I am so measured and calculated with my purchases and interests that I seriously have a hard time relating to buying/doing things “just because.” I rarely do things simply because it feels good; probably because I am a control freak and have this nagging fear of being irresponsible. Maybe it comes from years of being called a spoiled brat. Maybe it comes from being told I need to take more responsibility for myself. Maybe it comes from trying to live up to the perceived high expectations of others. Regardless the reason, I could probably stand to relax and not be so aggravated all the time.
People are wired in different ways and what seems completely asinine to me may be what others happen to enjoy. They want to do it and seem to enjoy it, so who am I to judge them? One could argue that spending money on trips, race cars, motorcycles or any of the other myriad of things that I do aren’t a good use of my time/money. That would piss me off… so why is it okay for things to be the other way around? It really isn’t. We like what we like and we want what we want. Part of accepting people for who they are is understanding they won’t always like, want or think the same way you do. Energy is better spent learning what makes people who they are so you can better relate and ultimately, have a better relationship.
The significant upgrade is going to cost me $10 (after selling my old one) and will save me $15/mo on my bill. I waited in line for 10 minutes. I know I was likely a driving force for this post… Figured I’d give it a response. Bling on.
Don’t flatter yourself. 😉
The thought actually started because I know someone who waited in line for 5 hours and someone else was doing something not iPhone related. Amusing you felt the need to justify yourself when I was basically admitting that I shouldn’t give a damn what others do. I guess you’re just used to always having to do it with me. Let’s break that cycle.
While you’re here though, you coulda saved the $15 without upgrading. So there. 😛
But I wouldn’t have because I have 543564565 other things to do before changing my rate plan w/ AT&T.