Temptation
Posted on January 9, 2008
Filed Under cheapskates, debt, bitching and moaning, resolutions, vow of asceticism |
I’ve bumbled my way past the first temptation. It came in the form of an invitation. A simple thing, “Do you want to see a movie tonight,” a friend asked. And, initially feeling sort of smug, I told her about my vow of asceticism. I explained my 8 week moratorium on luxury. I confessed that, sadly, such sacrifice surely must include entertainment of the Hollywood variety. Missing the point entirely, she concluded that I must not be able to afford the movies and, not unkindly, she offered to buy my ticket. I was reduced to shameful giggles. I muttered, “Christ this is going to be hard and humiliating.” In my best fiscally responsible voice I explained that I could buy my own ticket if need be, but ‘need’ was the thing at issue, having given my word to do nothing unnecessary with my money for the next two months. I think she was speechless and probably a bit injured. I can only hope she’s still my friend having just been rejected over an $8 outing. I now realize that friendship comes with a price of sorts.
And, now that I’ve got some remove from that uncomfortable conversation, I can see how this ‘poor mouse’ thing might have legs. I can limp about and lament my having no money for simple things like movies and coffee and new espadrilles for my trip to Florida and friends and family will buy me things and take me places and feel charitable and good.
I might never have to spend another non-obligatory dime. But then (sigh) I would have to swallow a whole heap of pride and get past the fact that other people’s consumption on my behalf does not solve the global problem, it just solves my problem. It is after all an exercise in restraint, an existential shake up, if not a subtle veil for the stark reality that is my checking account.
So bear with me friends while I beg off anything fun and interesting for the next 60 days. It is not your company I eschew. Really, it isn’t. Lenny Kravitz isn’t feeling the love either, nor is the shoe department at Nordstrums or the Boston Flower Market or Whole Foods or Amazon.com or the sweet little gift shop in the center of town that sells a darn good mocha latte and the most adorable chocolates from France.
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