Why I Choose to Shop at Thrift Stores
Growing up we didn’t have a lot of money since, mum was a single parent of four children. She worked two jobs Monday through Saturday 6:00am-8:00pm . On Sundays she worked in the nursery for both the morning and evening services. As a child this was the norm but as an adult I realize how much of herself she sacrificed, in order to be our provider.
My mum had to be smart with the income she acquired. Consequently,that meant that we shopped at the local thrift stores, recycled items, held yard sales and cut coupons religiously. She made it abundantly clear that our value was not based on the clothes we wore but on who we chose to be on the inside. This, a lesson she would echoed for many years.
One year during our annual yard sale the day proceeded as it always did. Like clockwork people drifted in and out searching for their own version of treasure. However, on this day the elegant lady who lived at 448 Circle Drive did something out of the ordinary. She crossed over to our house at 448 University Boulevard. She carried with her two garbage bags brimming with Couture clothing. Shamelessly, I squealed with delight as I tore into each bag. The garment that made my mouth fall agape and, was a white chiffon jumpsuit, Complete with flowing sleeves and a rhinestone encrusted belt. Naturally, I donned this expensive garment, albeit six sizes too big as I glided effortlessly across our dirty porch.My mum and the shoppers watched with kind smiles and cheerful applause.
My mum saw this as an opportunity to revisit a lesson she was determined to teach me. She said “ Pash (childhood nickname) you are beautiful no matter what you wear or where your clothes come from. Don’t ever compare yourself to someone’s outer beauty. If your character and beauty don’t go all the way to your heart and soul then they aren’t beautiful.
I have since carried this priceless lesson with me into adulthood and into my journey as a mother. There is nothing wrong with buying brand new items, dressing well or having nice things. For me personally, thrift shopping helps me to reduce waste in our landfills. It reminds me that my value comes from the quality of my character and it helps me save money for our family.
“Don’t ever compare yourself to someone’s outer beauty. If your character and beauty don’t go all the way to your heart and soul then they aren’t beautiful. “
Many people think thrift shopping is icky but it truly is not. I have found many outfits that bring me joy, cooking accessories, and clothes for my ever growing children. Just recently, I purchased a pink princess bike in perfectly working order for my daughter’s 3rd birthday for a whooping $8.00. When thrifting you just need to inspect the items carefully, wash them thoroughly. Then enjoy each treasure you find immensely. Happy Thrifting! The pictures below are items I have found at Goodwill: Cake Plate and Dome $6.00, New Day Pleaded Pink Skirt $ 2.50, Anthropologie Black Floral Tee $1.00, Leopard Print Shoes $3.00, Pink Princess Bike $8.00
-Patience
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