It’s Sunday evening and I’ve been filling in job applications with MTV on in the background for most of the day. At one point, Jennifer Lopez’s song ‘Love Don’t Cost a Thing’ came on. At the time I didn’t really take much notice, looking up to acknowledge the video but that was about it. However, for some reason almost an hour later the lyrics to this particular song are swimming around in my head and JLo’s got me thinking…
As cringeworthy as it may sound, my love really doesn’t cost a thing! Because when it comes to designer brands of shoes and bags, esteemed jewellers, flash cars and the latest gizmos and gadgets, (like JLo claims to be), I’m almost entirely indifferent. Don’t get me wrong, I like to have nice things as much as the next person, but brands and labels aren’t always synonymous with quality and class in my eyes. Anyone who knows me well, knows that I’d appreciate a big fat red velvet cake a lot more than a diamond-encrusted Cartier bracelet (yes I know that sounds ridiculous but it’s the truth… I’m very easily pleased, what can I do?!)
Being a 20-something year old female in the 21st century I feel like it should be natural for me to pine after expensive jewellery and heels or at least get moderately excited by them, but I really don’t. And at times I’ve felt out-of-place when unable to participate in girly conversations regarding what the latest Karen Millen designer handbag looks like or whether Armani’s collection of winter coats is up-to-scratch this year. That’s just me.
Some people’s happiness stems from their attainment of material possessions and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. Everyone’s different and those people have managed to pin-point just what it takes to brighten their day, so good for them. But as for me, when that amazing day known as PAY DAY comes around, I prefer to splurge my money on things that you won’t necessarily be able to identify on my person afterwards.
Discreet but enjoyable experiences such as relaxing spa breaks, weekends away to new places, music concerts… or activities like ice skating! Because such experiences are exciting, get my blood pumping and generate long-lasting memories that I’ll be able to remember for years to come. And they don’t run a risk of being erased, lost or broken like a diamond bracelet or necklace. So apologies pretentious society but I’m just a simple girl… a simple girl in search of some cake 🙂
Just A Small Town Girl... 
oh my gosh!!! i just started playing Jennifer Lopez’s song I’m real whilst looking at university transfers and then BAMM!! I start reading your article. simplicity is the highest level of sophistication
Haha great timing! I’m glad you liked the post Sharon 🙂
And you know what? No one can steal those memories. Which is the best thing of all.
So true, thanks for stopping by Don!
Love this post!
Especially when I can relate to it 😉
Thanks Nyssa, I’m glad that you could relate 🙂
Some folks are just buying their unique identity not realizing that the more they buy stuff to define it, the more they lose it. Nice post 🙂
Absolutely agree with you Petr. But to each their own I guess, some people find genuine happiness in material possessions so good luck to them! I’m glad you liked the post 🙂
I would take a red velvet cake over diamonds any day and if it’s a red velvet cheese cake then them gifter has won my heart lol. Love this article, agreed 100%.
100% on the same page as you when it comes to red velvet cake haha! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Hey i liked what u wrote and can identify with ur thoughts to an extent 🙂 It’s hard to find such ppl and they are almost like a scarce commodity these days. I have always been surrounded by punjabi’s and i am well aware of their craziness for those things.
Haha! Yes I think punjabis are well-known for their ostentatious shows of wealth these days, especially those living in large South Asian communities, where everyone’s constantly in competition with each other. Thanks for stopping by!
Brilliant insights, especially as you are starting out in what is normally the “consumption 20’s”. Invest in what really matters – learning, experiences, relationships, giving, and red velvet cake, and you’ll always be truly wealthy.
Very wise words, thanks for your comment Mike 🙂