If You Take Care of It, It Will Last

Reflections on care and contentment

Returning to my parent’s home, I am always met with a wave of nostalgia as I gazed upon familiar household items that had seem to stand the test of time. While not the house we grew up in, the accouterments therein remain. The same worn armchair, the grandfather clock with little to no scratches nor scuffs, and even the same family photos adorning the walls – all still in remarkably good condition. It was as if time stood still, and I became a child again, surrounded by the comforting familiarity of my youth.

But what struck me most was my dad's simple yet profound words that I’ve heard him say time again: "If you take care of it, it will last." As I looked around at the carefully maintained items, I realized that his words were more than just a practical tip – they were a powerful illustration of the importance of care and contentment.

This world often values novelty and disposability, my parents' commitment to preserving what they had was a testament to the value of careful attention and love. The armchair may not be the latest style, but it had been lovingly maintained, its worn cushions a testament to countless family gatherings and cozy nights. The grandfather clock may have some fading to the wood, but it had been a consistent keeper of time.

As I reflect on returning home, I realize that my dad's words were not just about material possessions – they were about relationships, personal growth, and even life itself. If we take care of our loved ones, our health, and our passions, they too will last and flourish. Therefore, as we intentionally take care of the things that matter most, we in turn cultivate contentment.

In American society, we are often beset by the supreme values of consumerism and expendability this is a countercultural perspective. We're constantly bombarded with messages telling us to upgrade, replace, and discard – whether it's our phones, cars, or even relationships. But what if we applied the principle of "taking care" to the things that truly matter? In relationships, this means sowing in people, not just accumulating acquaintances. It means nurturing empathy, active listening, and understanding, rather than discarding others when they no longer serve our purposes. By taking care of our loved ones, we build strong, resilient bonds that endure the difficulties of this present life.

Contentment is not about settling for what we have, but about appreciating and nurturing what we already possess. My visits home are always a poignant reminder of the power of care and contentment. May I carry this lesson with me and cultivate a spirit of love, attention, and appreciation for all that I have, and may I too learn to cherish and preserve the things that truly matter in life.