I’ve been a stuff collector
As long as I can remember
I’ve got clothes, books, kitchenware, sheets
& shoes
More stuff than I can ever use.
I really don’t need any more
So when I’m in a market or a store
I tell myself firmly I’ve got enough
But before I know it I’m buying more stuff!
Having too much stuff feels like an obsession
But I’ve been wondering about my desire for possessions
And I believe it serves a much deeper need
Than just buying stuff for waste or for greed.
See, I don’t do it to have the latest brands
To show off to friends or to get a man
For me having ‘things’ is a kind of security
Making up for a childhood marked by scarcity.
Having stuff means not having to go without
Not relying on others to provide, not living
with doubt;
I’ve felt the fear of never having enough
So that’s why years later I need to have stuff.
Now, I’m not sure I’ll ever be totally free
Of the habit that comes from an emotional need
So next time I’m out shopping I’ll look and I may even touch
But I’ll do my best to resist buying any more stuff.
