A friend asked me if I wanted to go shopping not long ago. As we wandered, I wondered what it is about buying new clothes that draws us to this activity, outside actual necessity? There must be something we seek through this process. I would venture to say it is freshness, instant change, newness, beauty, something that makes us stop and pause – all understandable in this world that can be sometimes exhausting. On the other hand, new clothes can give us a feeling of taking action on something we want, a feeling of momentary power – this edges close to an addiction at its extreme which actually moves people away from real action in their lives. That is another topic…
Personally, I liken going shopping to going to an art gallery. I seek beauty, innovation, inspiration. Breathing it in, I am often satisfied. Occasionally, something does call to me and I make a purchase. My shopping is well honed and so I can say yes or no. I help others do the same, really select items that work for them and leave the rest.
I cannot help but touch beautiful fabric. It’s almost like I drink it in through touch. Simulataneously, I learn about the quality of the fabric – how long might it last? is it good quality? will it hold the colour after many washes? When you experience fabric this way, this is the information it gives back!
Nirvana is fleeting on this earth, yet we all seek ways to grasp it. Knowing that it is impermanent can help us wake up and be conscious about our actual actions. Do shop, but like everything else, aim to do it well.
