What if Future Generations Don't Want Your Stuff
Like most of you, I cherish many items that once belonged to my ancestors. I also have unique pieces from my own life I'd like to share, but I have come to realize that not every item will hold the same meaning for future generations. Rather than worry about finding a home for everything, I have decided to photograph my treasures and write their stories for posterity. I admit that a lot is lost in a print representation of an antique, but it is my hope that the photos and stories might inspire a conversation about our family history.
Many years ago, my friend and I were at a handicraft fair where I admired a crooked, little blue teapot. It was its imperfection that made it appealing to me. I didn’t buy it, because I was on a budget and I didn’t really need it, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
Not long after that outing, I had a birthday. The same friend rang my doorbell and handed me a beautifully wrapped present. I read the card carefully and took my time to open the parcel. When I removed some of the packing, I saw the little teapot resting perfectly on a bed of tissue paper. What a splendid gift! Of course, we put it to good use, immediately.
This tiny little pot is still one of my favourite happy-things; it pours without dripping and keeps tea piping hot. My friend and I have shared stories over this teapot many times and will continue to do so for years to come.
The teapot sits between us
Hand-made, imperfect, unique
Like friendship
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Comments (4)
Darlene Aitken
July 26, 2013 at 02:13 pmIt seems like just yesterday when my parents were downsizing from their home to an apartment. We are now in the process of selling our house and so I have started the same process. I am sure the Thrift Store in town is going to post a sign saying, "Darlene, keep your own darn junk!" Thanks for your blog!
Bev Gardner
July 25, 2013 at 11:16 amLove the story Maureen! My granddaughter and I are spending time at the lake. She hasn't shown much interest in owning old treasures but likes all books that used to be her Dad's. What she likes best is hearing stories about people's experiences, so I think your idea would appeal to her with the story of who the treasure came and time you shared with the treasure.
Maureen Haddock
July 24, 2013 at 02:09 pmHelen, take photos of the items with interesting stories, just in case someone in the next generation develops a love of family history. I am always surprised by the items my girls want to inherit. They will have the same problem with their treasures as they get older. I think I'll make an iBook of my most loved teacups. That won't take up too much space, right?
Helen Davis
July 24, 2013 at 01:49 pmSo odd I would get an email about that today..as I decide what to keep and what to scrap for my move to Kelowna. Paying someone to move stuff I don't absolutely need..makes it a whole lot easier to let it go. Someone else can, hopefully, enjoy them. Thanks for sharing your story.
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