A Call To Being Not Frugal
Certainly, stretching our incomes and doing all we can to survive and thrive in these challenging economic days is necessary, and is a demonstration of love to our families. The frugal life provides incredible opportunities for family growth. However, I write as a reminder to all of us, there is a time to live lavishly!
One of the benefits of parenting in frugal mode is that our children learn to appreciate the little things. A coupon for a special treat, a cold drink purchased when out and about or a much desired thrift shop purchase, can bring delight to a child that has learned the value of money spent. But it’s even more important to remember that relationships take time and effort, too. Perhaps purchasing a loaf of store bought bread can provide a few hours for Mom to play a game or read a book. Maybe the CVS deals could be passed up this week in favor of a long walk listening to a child’s heart. A day away from the computer, seeking to find every deal out there, might be just as well spent playing paper dolls.
This year I received some unexpected birthday money. Now, I really wanted to spend this treasure well! My mind was filled with ideas how to use it most effectively. As I pursued how best to invest this gift, an idea came to mind. Each of my children was given the opportunity to choose something they would like to do with me. Cost was minimal, (lavish does not need to mean expensive.) My oldest son and I played miniature golf after a quick dinner with a left over gift card. My daughter and I had breakfast with a coupon and visited a library with an old book sale section. My youngest son wanted to visit the zoo. The essence of our days was time to enjoy each other and the investment has paid great dividends. I still hug these memories to my heart.
Each of us is in a different season, with differing budgets and expectations. The mother with many young ones will have a different story than mine. However, a hug, a game, even a cuddle in bed can speak volumes into a life. I do not write to add one more task into your day, but to remind all of us that in relationships to heed the call of not being frugal.
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5 Responses to “A Call To Being Not Frugal”
November 12th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
I appreciate this! With two children under 4 and no childcare, another one on the way, a website to run, a part time job, and a household to run, my time is stretched to the limit. I read the blog and always feel like I could be more frugal – but bargain hunting take TIME, and little ones hate being dragged from store to store. I do what I can, and watch for opportunities, but will not beat myself up for spending time with my kids instead of looking for deals. Until another season in life, anyway!! Thank you!!
November 12th, 2009 at 4:52 pm
In the Tightwad gazette it talks about being frugal as the ultimate balance of resources – deciding where your time is best spent as well as your money, and in that sense you can never be too frugal, because its all about balance.
November 12th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
Excellent post. DL. Being frugal is a mindset, not a torturous end in itself. The most valuable thing we have is our time. Choosing to spend it well is very important, I think. If one has no choice but to clip every coupon, ask “What’s the least expensive option?” on everything, then do what you must to care for your family, but never forget the hugsand other things that cost us nothing. Giving of yourself is so important, even to the poorest of poor who must struggle just to survive.
November 16th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Why would you not save, if you can? I’ve never understood why people spend when they don’t have to.
November 16th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Gourmet Living, perhaps I was not clear in my article. I encourage the frugal life, but believe there may be times when we need to remember to be careful not to place frugal living above the relational needs of our families.
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