In this post and this post, we delved into the phrase “Eat it up, wear it out, make it do, do without” as a mantra for choosing to live a frugal lifestyle. Today we focus on the third phrase.
As mentioned in a previous post, our culture screams at us that we are not “normal” or “good enough” until we have the newest stuff on the market. We are bombarded with T.V. shows, commercials, and social media posts, showing us how much better life would be if we threw out the old and purchased (from them) the new.
I don’t think poorly of those who buy new furniture because they just want something new. I like new stuff too, but in the spirit of living frugally, there are so many times we can “make do” with what we already have. Sometimes we have to realize that what we have is enough. The newest isn’t always necessary.
I struggle with this concept of contentment at times. The way I see it is that if I really want something new for my home, but it’s just not in the budget for now, I can do one of two things. I can make do with what I have. The other option – buy it and wish I hadn’t because I truly can’t afford it.
One of my favorite strategies for “making something do” is to set a plan in motion for purchasing that item.
For example, I have wanted a new couch for quite some time. Ours was fine, but it was not comfortable to sit on anymore because it had been a mainstay while raising two big boys into adulthood. I would cringe when our guests would sit on the couch because they would sink down to what seemed like the floor! I tried to bolster the couch by putting pillows under the cushions, but that wasn’t a great solution. Embarrassing!
However, couches are expensive, and it just wasn’t the right time in our budget for a new couch. So, what did I do? Well, I gave it away!
When we relocated to our current house, a few strong college guys so graciously agreed to help us move some big pieces of furniture. I asked if anyone had need for the old couch and immediately had a taker! I knew that if I ever moved that big ugly beast of a couch to my new house, we would have a hard time getting it out of there.
I immediately started a “jar fund” and funneled any extra money that I could into the jar for my couch. No, I do not have a couch yet. But I am getting close! We wore the couch out, and then gave it to someone who can still enjoy it. No guilt in buying a new one because it will be paid for from the “jar fund” and it will replace a well-loved couch that has a new home.
What is your favorite “make it do” story?
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, remembering that as members of the same body you are called to live in harmony, and never forget to be thankful for what God has done for you.
Colossians 3:15