Depreciation of Appreciation

1 Timothy 6:7-8, "For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content."

As a little girl, I often hung with the "old folks" in my family and listened intently of their stories of making "do" and how imperative it was for me to always appreciate what God had blessed me with. My folks taught me that any blessing from God was "BIG" and my Uncle Jimmy Milton would always tell me that "pride will make one suffer."  My folks may not have had much, but they gave me and those in my generation lineage a few items that were sustainable: Jesus, cleanliness, and to always make an "honest living." The women in my family, like most American families had a few valuable items they carried through generations, such as a photo album, few pieces of china, a ring, and clippings from history. The "value of the item" was not important- the lesson was to "value the item." My kinfolks taught me to always have the basic necessities in my home-Dawn Detergent, Pine Sol, Bleach, extra sheets, "spreads" and towels and something in the "fridge" for unexpected company, or at least a pound cake on the table and Folgers Coffee in the cabinet for visitors. Our generation has gotten so "caught up" into what the world says we should have and be doing that we have lost focus on the authenticity of living a simplistic life. The bulk of women in our society are unaware of how to "press" a dress, make a decent meal, nor stitch a button on a t-shirt. A lot of men are unaware of the power of  knotting a tie, understanding the concept of wearing a belt, and being committed to one woman as being powerful and God's Way. One thing is for sure, we brought nothing into this world and it is for certain that we cannot carry anything out. Embracing "simplicity" doesn't have to be "complicated."