What is in your closet? Do you have things in storage that you intend to use, but can’t seem to find the time to dig them out? Do you acquire items that eat up valuable space in your house or shed?
My dad did. We found clocks in his storage shed after his death—lots of clocks. Dad thought the clocks would be worth something someday, but that has not been the case. Missing parts devalue some antique clocks and the reproductions assess at a low price.
What am I suppose to do with 18 clocks? There were over 52 to begin with, but after distributing them between siblings, I ended up with 18 of my father’s clocks.
I have no use for so many clocks, nor do I want to store them for my children to stumble upon after my death. So far, I’ve sold some on Craig’s List, given others as gifts to children, and kept two for myself.
Dad’s clock collection sat in storage for over 20 years—not forgotten, just ignored. Other interests and projects required his attention until ill health consumed his life.
This year I’m rummaging through my valuables and giving them as gifts to my children and grandchildren. More will be given in the years ahead.
Yes, my descendants would still end up with them eventually, but why wait until I’m gone? The joy in a granddaughter’s eyes is worth the English tea cup and saucer nestled in the box along with a fresh bag of chocolate mint tea. Do I want to miss the appreciation of a son receiving his grandfather’s pocket watch and chain?
Bottom line—I can’t afford to ignore my stored treasures. They provide no joy as long as they sit on a dark shelf and eat up valuable storage space. Stored treasures are meant to become gifts of the heart.
What’s in your closet?
In Him together, Susan Gaddis
Finding the Holy in the daily isn’t always inspirational. Sometimes it is just what we do.
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