Theresa's Birthday

This is the first birthday of my friend Theresa's I will miss probably since we met one another back at Texas Tech. I made this little birthday walk down memory lane. I want to share it with you...

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Contentment vs. New Shoes

"That's why mental happiness is more important than physical comfort. Physical comfort comes from the material. But material facilities cannot provide you with peace of mind. … When you are discontent, you always want more, more, more. Your desire can never be satisfied. But when you practice contentment, you can say to yourself, 'Oh yes—I already have everything that I really need."

— The Dalai Lama

This is hard for me. I love the feel, smell, etc. of new shoes, a new shirt, a cool thing, a new handbag. Why does buying things = discontentment? I know in the end none of it makes any difference. A new pair of shoes isn't going to give you peace of mind. Let's just take today as an example... I have a presentation this evening. I bought a new pair of slacks and a sweater to wear. I look good which makes me feel good. Will this help my presentation? Maybe. If I feel more confident, I will exude confidence. Right? See... this is a tough one for me.

I bought us tickets to see the Dali Lama at Radio City Music Hall. Maybe he'll clear some things up in that presentation.