Ever since the first humans found a shiny rock, became obsessed and fought over it, we have been captivated by objects that are unnecessary for our survival but are pleasurable to own. The objects I'm talking about, also called luxuries come in the form of iPods, computers, blackberries and anything you can imagine that are not necessary for our survival today. The meaning of what is considered to be a luxury has changed greatly in our recent history; we no longer need just food, shelter and water to survive, we depend on much more that would have been considered luxuries even as far back as one hundred years ago. One hundred years ago, people lived happily without needing a telephone or a car. As technology supposedly improved our lives, we got more dependent on things that weren't necessary to live. We must become independent from luxuries and learn to live without them. By being dependant on luxuries, we are becoming attached to objects that can only provide temporary satisfaction. As a result of this we keep purchasing those objects to keep getting that feeling, which has a devastating effect on the earth and our limited resources. As a result of this over consumption of material goods, we spend too much time on luxuries instead of developing our social skills. Avoiding luxuries as much as possible would have a big positive effect on us and allow us to lead simpler, happier lives. .
I'm sure everyone here has at some point, whether they realize it or not, said "I need a new Ipod", what's wrong with saying that, is the word need. To say that you need something implies that you can't live without it; you can live without an ipod. By having such a strong attachment to inanimate objects, you are becoming less independent. Independence is key to emotional stability, if you are emotionally attached to luxuries that are unimportant and non living, you are getting a temporary satisfaction that fades away quickly.