Powered by Blogger.

A Tree Grew in Manhattan and Thoughts on Stuff

I took this picture this afternoon. This is a block from my building. It's the first time I've walked by it in daylight since the storm.  


Thoughts on Stuff

My synagogue has launched an active program for assisting folk who are in shelters. We brought bags of blankets, toiletries and other necessities to the Lower East Side on Friday and today did a collection for the Rockaways. It's gotten cold and there's a real need for warm clothes -- all my extra socks went to a good home -- and blankets. I knew I had some extra shampoo and soap in my bathroom vanity and found a surprise when I went in to find them. I'd had a leak at some time and things I'd put there were damp and in some cases, just ruined. If I'd kept the vanity more orderly -- and had less stuff -- I'd have realized this.  I still had lots of good things to donate, but that made me realize how much I had that I didn't need.

It was the same with my closets. I had lots that I didn't need. Lots! I was able to donate a lovely pair of brown wool pants, size 8. I don't think I've worn size eight pants since Ronald Reagan was President, and then it was definitely during the first term. I'm sure I thought I would one day be able to wear these pants again, but realistically I doubt it. It gave me a good realization of how few items of clothes I really use and really need. I will think very carefully before I buy another scrap of clothes to bring home.  

The two days off -- though keeping up with email -- have been great. I've been thankful for quiet, for friends and for light and heat. I hope you've had a good weekend and wish you well for the week ahead. 

14 comments

Ms Sparrow said...

I have read that if you don't wear an article of clothing for a year, you should get rid of it. I have hung onto things for years that I really liked and longed to wear again. It's hard giving up that hope and facing reality. One just hopes the new owner will like it as much as you did.

Mevely317 said...

Your synagogue's efforts are just an example of the GOOD all around us, if we just allow ourselves to look beyond the negativity!

Neabear said...

I came across the envelope you used to mail me a giveaway so long ago and though about you. Had to come and see if you were okay after Hurricane Sandy. Glad to hear you are okay. That is a relief!

Linnea

Denise said...

I see you still have your sense of humor! I can SOOOO relate to that size 8 issue, but I am still hanging on to my Albert Nipon suit. For the times when I need a little nostalgia. Hope you have a good week ahead.

Nellie said...

I'm so glad you have had a week-end to refresh yourself for the days ahead. Very good gesture from your Synagogue to reach out to those who have such great needs at this point!

Thinking of you as you begin another work week!

Hugs,
Nellie

Melinda said...

I'm sure that you had a good two days off.
It always makes one feel better to help others when there is a need.
I hope that things start getting better for all that were affected by the storm.

Have a great Monday.

M :)

Terra said...

Great blessings for all synagogues and churches who are giving and sharing. I understand what you say about having many things that we can give away. When we each do a little collectively it is a lot.

Mimi said...

HI!!
SO glad you are ok...The pics I see on TV just are So sad..I feel so bad for the people who lost everything...the long gas lines.....the loss of homes....the lost lives....oh the sad stories...
Praying for POWER and for normalcy for all
hugs,
jamie

I'm mostly known as 'MA' said...

I hope you are renewed and refreshed somewhat for another busy week ahead. I don't think I ever wore a size 8, but I have purged those items of clothing I can no longer wear, Hope you can get you leak fixed without too much bother. It's good you had a reason to look under there. Our church has a blanket collection every year about this time. It's always good to remember those in need. Hope the week ahead brings a lot of improvement there in your city as the clean up continues there.

Theresa said...

Poor tree:( I am watching GMA and they are having a telethon for your folks up there! I am praying for all involved! It is sad to see so many still without a place to call home! Have a blessed day dear friend, HUGS!

Life and Breath and Everything Else said...

I feel inspired to go through my closet and donate what I can. Thanks for posting :)

Susie said...

Buttercup, You are right about too much stuff..aren't we all like that?? We could all get by with less...but the people in need, that's a different story. It's going to be a long clean up and recovery. I will see if I can donate to any organizations helping the storm victims. xoxo, Susie

Paula said...

I am still praying for those affected by Sandy. I'm glad you are well! I am so grateful for all the generous folks who are helping out!

Lynda said...

You are the second blogger today who has helped others less fortunate. I am laughing about your pants and your description of the last time they were worn. Bummer about the leak. Hope it's not too bad. It has happened to all of us though - - that we didn't discover it immediately.