Today’s Reflection: The Stuff That Stays

One of my favorite ways to spend a quiet weekend is exploring estate sales, especially those tucked away in mansions or affluent neighborhoods. It’s not about aspiring to “live like the other side.” For me, it’s about uncovering pieces with a story, hunting for treasures that bring a spark of joy—or snagging a bargain I never knew I needed.

Over the years, I’ve come to know the rhythms of estate sales. I follow home liquidators, track markdown patterns, and have learned the art of patience. If a piece is meant for me, I tell myself, it will still be there on that final day, waiting for its new chapter.

But I’m not in it to accumulate “stuff.” My goal isn’t clutter; it’s curation. I gravitate toward things that blend seamlessly with my style or nudge it in a new direction—blown glass, colorful water glasses, or unique décor that whispers a little joy into my home. Sometimes I find treasures to replace worn-out pieces, refreshing my space without a total overhaul.

Over the years, I’ve scored some remarkable finds: a LeBron James jersey, a massive flat-screen TV, a stunning walnut dining set, and my growing collection of Murano glass. I’ve also stumbled upon surprises, like an antique copper pumpkin or a life-sized Shrek I couldn’t leave behind. That Shrek, by the way, holds a special place in my heart—it was the movie my husband and I saw on our first date 23 years ago. We’ve been married over 20 years now, and for $5, that memory came home with me in pristine condition.

Yet, as much as I love the thrill of these finds, estate sales have a way of whispering deeper lessons. Walking through these grand homes filled with treasures from across the globe, I’m reminded of one inescapable truth: we can’t take it with us.

The things that once brought joy, or marked milestones, or told stories, will someday pass into new hands. The heirlooms we cherish may not hold the same meaning for those we leave behind—and that’s okay. Our legacy isn’t the stuff we accumulate; it’s the moments, the memories, and the impact we leave behind.

So, I’ll keep visiting these sales, not just for the bargains but for the reminders. I’ll continue looking for stories to take home while remembering to live the story I want to leave behind.