A Priceless Lesson in Simplicity.

I usually receive compliments like, "Oh wow, this is beautiful. You have eyes for good things. How much did you get it/those?" And when I tell them the price, they scream and say I've wasted money, you have been cheated and all those unpleasant words. But in the end, they come to appreciate how I've loved quality over quantity.

This didn't just happen overnight. I mean the change of picking something valuable as it took me years to finally learn a lesson from it.

I was always selfish with my money that instead of going for something more better, I would only pick the item because it was cheap, and I easily got attracted by the outward look, only for me to get home and realise what fake stuff I brought home with me. I used to not spend my money, which would make me go for cheap things rather than spend on something worthwhile and enjoyable.

After some years, everything changed. I became someone who hate to hoard lots of items or stuff around me. I would rather go for one quality thing that would last me longer than going for something cheaper and less quality.

The truth then was that I had eyes for good things but they were expensive, I just didn't want to use my own money. One of the lessons I learned was to value quality stuff and spend on it no matter how expensive they are rather than buying cheap things with less money that, in the end, wouldn't speak of my worth. How did I learn such a lesson?

I remember one day, my big sister, who just got a good-paying job, came to visit us, and I eyed this beautiful wristwatch she wore. I asked how much she got it and couldn't stop screaming with the words, "This is too expensive; I can't waste my money." Naive me — I didn’t know that when it comes to stuff, one should carry themselves like they’re worth it. My sister was just smiling, saying someday I would get there.

It then dawned on me that when you have the money, you can afford some things and also make yourself valuable in the presence of people.

My perspective began to shift as I grew older. The realization I was opened to was that when it comes to quality things, they aren't just about the price tag; they are something that brings value to one's life, how they serve you, and the confidence that follows. Just like the sky-vast, endless and unwavering in its presence, quality items become a steady part of your life, something you can always trust and rely on, always.

When I started watching out for fewer but better things, I saw the difference almost immediately. There's this satisfaction so unique when you feel that you own something that lasts, one that doesn't fade or break down with time. It's like looking at the sky after a storm, where everything feels fresh and clean, and then you acknowledge that you made the right choice.

Today, I don't just buy things; I build relationships with them and I don't bother how much I spend to get them. Every item carries meaning and purpose, just like when a single star stands out in the night sky. It's not about having many stars; it's about having one that truly lights up your world.

My mantra over the years has been quality over quantity. This is a life lesson, so valuable and expansive as the heavens. In choosing quality, I've learned to value and cherish not only the things I own but also the life I live, a simple yet meaningful one, and that's a choice I will never regret.

---

_{Both images are mine}