Got the Strat - Happy Anniversary - Collections of Things

So, I got my Fender Stratocaster. It is lovely. I even sound good playing it.

I was thinking lately about possessions. I like nice things. I can unerringly pick out the most expensive item - and usually it's the one I want. However, no matter how lovely, they are just objects.

All of them can be replaced.

While it would make me very angry if my possessions were stolen, sad if they were destroyed and furious if they were vandalized - they are just things.

Some may make our lives easier, others, like the Strat, give enjoyment.

I have never really understood collecting things that are useless, like stuffed animals, or figurines. My only non-useful collections are sentimental - Best of the West (toys from my childhood), Barbie & Ken, for obvious reasons if you know me.

I have useful collections. I collect tarot cards, guitars, and blank journals. Also silver earrings from every state or province I visit. I get those instead of tourist souvenirs. No thanks to those tacky things for me.

Even so - they are just objects. Some of the most sentimental, like the hope chest my Dad made in High School, and my Mom's art, are still just reminders of them.

The Strat (and the cowbell) will always remind me of our 24th anniversary. The Mustang will always remind me of my 35th birthday.

The things may be sold someday, but the memories will always belong to me.