Modern times feel scarce, and yet we live in the age of superabundance.
A king three hundred years ago couldn’t imagine the conveniences you have. Sure, WiFi-enabled television was unfathomable a few centuries ago, but even the commonplace things we take for granted—groceries, lightbulbs, antibiotics, highways, recorded music, leaf blowers, disposable twist ties, plastic storage containers—were beyond the bounds of royalty.
The monarchy had everything.
But you have more.
Curiously, having more than your ancestors’ overlords is making you feel dissatisfied: beyond a certain threshold, having more increases your sense of lack. What a bewildering paradox.
Every new convenience
solves one problem
and introduces another.
Having social media allows you to connect, but it also contributes to a busy, distracted life steeped in low-grade anxiety.
Having sneakers makes your walks more comfortable, but they also insulate you from the Earth, which increases inflammation.
Having modern hygiene products keeps your body spotless, but their toxic ingredients might make you chronically ill.
Dang, the cost of living is high.
But the cost of having is even higher.
Have wisely.
