What value do my belongings have to me? What things do I want to add to my possessions? Do I envy what others have that I cannot or do not have? What happens to my material things when I leave this world?

I had a dream last night that really put these questions into prospective. I was dreaming that I was at some kind of flea market. I came across an area with some really nice things at really great prices. I wanted to look around and see what treasures I could find. There were shoes, boots, books, paintings, all sorts of beautiful things. Then suddenly, my alarm went off. No! I want to buy something! I didn't get to look around long enough! I hit snooze - that will buy me 5 minutes....

Then, as I was drifting back to sleep in the hopes of getting back to the flea market, a thought occurred to me: Even if I find something that I MUST have, I won't be able to bring it back with me when my alarm goes off again. What was the purpose of finding that perfect pair of boots? What did I plan on doing with them?

I didn't return to the flea market when I fell back to sleep. But when my alarm went off again and I dragged myself from slumber, I recalled my revelation and realized that the same concept applies to the waking world. What things from this world will I be able to take with me when I pass on? Not material things. I will be able to take the memories, the experiences, the lessons, the emotions. But I won't be able to take anything I can hold in my hand - money, jewelry, clothing, nick-knacks, etc.

I can, however, appreciate these tangible items during my lifetime here on Earth. Unlike my dream, if I find the perfect pair of boots in this waking world, I can enjoy them while I'm here. I can appreciate the treasures I have found so far, as well as the treasures waiting to be found. But there is no need to envy what others have, or to be upset if I cannot afford something, because once my lifetime on Earth is over, those things do not matter anymore. They are temporary, whereas my memories and experiences will last an eternity.

So, while I absolutely love my black strappy heels that I am wearing today, I will be sure to create some lasting memories today as well. I will smile at a stranger, I will tell my loved ones that I love them, I will snuggle with my furbabies, I will take a walk in the sunshine....

I may be a material girl to some extent, but when it comes to the big picture, I think I'm more of an immaterial girl at heart.