What Is Enough, and How Do I Know?

Mother had a system, perhaps a rule, that three of everything would be best. For bedsheets, she said, “One on the bed, one in the wash, and one in the closet.” In her kitchen pantry, she kept three cans of vegetables, and that’s how she knew what to buy next time at the grocery. When I got married, I adapted her system, but not always three of each item. I only wanted then and now to know I had a spare when needed.

The other day I opened up a jar of Blue-Emu (lotion for arthritis) and thought, I need to get another to have in the closet. That got me to adding up what I viewed as not enough. Toilet paper came first to mind, for I want never to be out of that necessity. During Covid shoppers could only purchase limited amounts of toilet paper, and stores found it hard to stock enough. I’m glad we’ve gotten away from that restriction. What’s are other items? I want enough hot water to take a shower and wash dishes. When the hot water heater isn’t working properly, it’s a spoiler. Many other items I collect to satisfy my “enough” standard for daily living.

At the same time I’ve been having fun lately sorting through my stuff in order to toss unneeded items or to find someone who could use them. Yes, a fun exercise. I’ve found letters and saved objects that I’d forgotten about. Some led me to contact people I’ve not heard from in a while. Other stuff I put into the trash and that pleases me also. Unneeded clutter is just that: not needed.

Of course, I know this is my routine and not suitable for others, especially for those whose income is limited at best or lacking mostly. Having one of any needed item can be enough and sparks gratitude. This speaks highly of not only our own country, but the world’s needy people. That’s where sharing comes in for Christians especially. We give with generosity, because we are blessed with goods.

Why I chose the accompanying photo had to do with “three,” not friends. As a young child, I found it not always suitable to have two other friends, for one usually got left out. Two worked better for me then, but not now. I value my friends in various number combinations associated with an event or organization, especially with church folk. How about you?

If you have a proven system for keeping, giving, or tossing, I’d like to hear from you. At least share your idea, but perhaps not the objective. Disagreeing with me is cheap. Have a blessed day.