“You just can’t help going to Selfridges and Harrods. You were there the day before yesterday too!” — said a friend who lives in London, just a few weeks ago when I spent a few days there.
And he was right. I’ve been to those stores many times—I love seeing beautiful things, outfits that inspire me! Not just clothes, but also shoes, bags, perfumes, home decor, teas, books. These are the kinds of objects, scents, and experiences that help me see the world through different lenses.
When I see them, the world feels more beautiful. The entire universe seems more colorful, more alive, more abundant.
Years ago, I used to buy them too. Not one pair of shoes, but three. Not one pair of glasses, but three. Not one perfume, but several.
Now, at least I don’t buy them anymore. Not all of them. I’m still obsessed with perfumes and books, though. They’re easier to manage, and I’ve “owned” that part of myself—if I may use a trendy word. We all need a few “passions,” don’t we?
Anyway, these visits to stores like the ones above give me part of the energy I need. They excite me, relax me, make me happy, inspire me—and sometimes frustrate me.
Just like I feel inspired when I look at shop windows, visit the museum of decorative arts, admire buildings in Paris, silently recite poems, flip through fashion magazines, read essays about life’s little nothings, or browse through art books.
None of these things are pragmatic. None of them turn into something tangible.
But how much I need them in order to do everything else!
What passion gives you energy? Or what activity, seemingly impractical, inspires you deeply?