It was an early Spring morning and I was lying in my bed looking up at the ceiling. I had the most morbid but interesting thought: "If I died this moment, what would happen to all my things". It was a sobering moment. My living space had become cluttered and I realized that my loved ones would have to get rid of a whole lot of stuff. The reality set in, that most of my items would be heading to the city landfill. Things that were a treasure to me would become trash to others. Along with the sinking feeling in my gut, I thought, this would not be a good thing. So I began to think about how to change my future outcome. Although I love giving to Goodwill and The Salvation Army, I did not want these precious items going to perfect strangers. These things had encompassed my heart and soul, my blood, sweat and tears, special moments, and my world travels; It was not going to be easy to part ways with them.
“Simplicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough.”
I had two goals to accomplish. I needed to get rid of the clutter and yet preserve my treasures, those items that I had acquired over time that brought me joy when I used or viewed them. I had to find a way that I could bless my loved ones with the treasures while I am still alive. It made no sense to me, to have them be burdened with figuring out after my death, who among them would get what? So I came up with a plan, have a "Purge Party". I invited several of my family members and friends over to my home, we had a wonderful gathering and I had them take what they loved and could use in their living spaces. I set aside art, furniture, clothing etc. It was a success. I had given away a feast of items that I loved. The items I held dear were now with family and friends that would use, appreciate, and enjoy them. The items that were leftovers, were bagged and given away to folks who could not attend the party.
“Our life is frittered away by detail... simplify, simplify.”
Years have passed now and I have received more joy from those precious items when I visit my family and friend's homes. They cherish them because of their love for me. They get to experience them while I am alive and well. My living areas have less clutter, giving me space to enjoy my home. As I am writing this, it might be time for another "Purge Party" of my own to celebrate this new chapter in my life.
Do you want to know more about how to create your own Purge Party or any home organization tips?, feel free to contact me for a consultation. If this post helped you in anyway, please hit the "like" and share. Let's create the beautiful and organized space you deserve.