This is a completely foreign concept to me. As I sat there staring at the overpacked suitcases sitting in my house, I began to wonder what exactly do I need, what is excess, and what can be purchased again when I arrive. Culling through all of my items with a judicious prejudice, I decided to take on a new tactic. Items I haven’t worn or used in the last month are not allowed. Items that I wish had a purpose but served me no actual use will not be tolerated.
Humbled and almost at the verge of burning everything and anything just to get it out of my sight, I began the daunting task of re-evaluating the essentials for my journey. Dug through the first suitcase I packed, culling items that I haven’t used or seen in years, while also trying to maintain a semblance of rationality. It was definitely an ordeal looking through the massive clothing items I have amassed in over two decades. Items that I felt defined my personal style I had to chuck to the “does not go with you” bin, while also trying to reason why I should even bring an extra jacket.
Like most of the challenges I face in life, I began to examine my situation in a very calculated and goal oriented way. I had to cull items I knew I didn’t need, but I felt were very much apart of who I am. It was at that point that I realized that the clothing, the shoes, the accessories, were just additives to my life. They did not define me or make me who I am; my personality, my voice, and my dreams are what make me who I am and are not tangible items I need to carry with me on this journey. I spent a good few minutes reminding myself the clothes and the jewelry aren’t what define me, they aren’t why people are drawn to me. They’re just an extension of who I am, but they do not define me.
In the end, I culled so much and have so much to cull when I return. While exhausting and overwhelming, it was also an opportunity for me to feel whole, for me to really come to a personal understanding that things really are just that. Things.
I am now down to three suitcases, a carry on, and a giant purse. I may not have everything I need, but I definitely do not have a lot of excess anymore. The purging felt good and suited as a good reminder that what we leave behind isn’t always a tangible item, but a feeling, a moment, and a memory.
Valerie Kromas 
I looked at it as what could I not replace. If my shipment was lost, what was most precious. I ended up with a similar load…3 suitcases & 2 cats. ♥️
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That’s definitely the best way of looking at it. It’s just hard to pack light when I’ve built up this giant collection of things over the past decade. It’ll feel good to purge what I don’t need though.
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