How Much Money Does Life Have to Cost?

That question has been around probably since the idea of some type of currency exchange came into society.  There have always been something, I suppose that a person couldn't obtain through barter and precious metal coins were used to make the purchase.  Abraham buying the burial site for Sarah comes to mind.  Interestingly, figuring the value of silver and the price of land, the same weight of silver is worth about the same size parcel of land.  That extra info is at no cost as we consider just how much life needs to cost and what we do need to live.

We must first assess the term need and really consider most of us possess entirely more than we need.  Basically we all need shelter, food, clothing, and a way to provide them.  All the rest are basically beyond need.  I'm not suggesting we bare bones rough it needlessly, but let's face facts, most of us think we need a lot more.  To be honest, I can't think of anything I want that I don't have.  Obviously I have a computer and if you follow any of my articles, you are probably aware that I own my home and some land.  Well, I own it as much as anyone can own property in a mortgaged country.

So, we're talking shelter now.  Basic shelter is not a mcmansion.  Basic shelter is something that provides protection from the elements and affords a bit of privacy, except in the case of NSA surveillance.  I think that just comes with the entire territory now.  I have a much larger home than I need, as do many of us.  And isn't it amazing how many of us don't like to do housework?   We often mistake a burden for a blessing.  Anything larger than we want to take care of or more expensive than we can afford, is a burden.

I am no fashion plate, but I receive compliments nearly every time I go to town.  I have a particular style that suits me and I've worn it for about 20 years.  As a matter of fact, I've had this style so long, it's come back into style!  I actually bought a new skirt last summer, on clearance.  Clothes are another thing in which, we simply have more than we need, and buy unnecessarily.  Just like vehicles, clothes do not have to be purchased new.  I've shopped at thrift stores for years, because it was cheaper than sewing, and bargains are just fun!

As for food, we may all be coming down to the reality that if we're going to have nutritious food that is real food, we're going to have to raise it ourselves or know someone that does.  It really doesn't take a very large garden to provide fresh produce for a family.

As for the rest of our expenses, I consider utilities to be a necessity at this time, but outside of this list, are options or luxuries.  From most of the conversations I've had, I'd say the expensive part of life is the options.