What exactly is luxury? It is different things to different people and yet by standards set by our cultural norms in western society it is defined by monetary wealth and the accumulation and purchase of items that are deemed “valuable” by those same standards. The primary standard of wealth seems to be the ownership of land. It starts there and then continues to build. The ownership of land as a commodity is considered a luxury today as the prices go up higher and higher in some parts of the world. Those who can afford to buy property are considered privileged. Wars and law suits are fought over land.

When I woke up this morning I felt deep gratitude for the comfortable mattress that was holding my body and making it more comfortable. I gave thanks for the soft pillow where my head had rested throughout the night and the blanket that covered me and kept the chill away from the cool air blowing from the fan. The luxury of a bathroom just a few steps from my room and the presence of clean running water are something I have always taken for granted.

This morning I felt that I was living in the lap of luxury – clean fresh air to breathe, fresh water to drink and bathe in, nourishing food to eat whenever I want, surrounded by natural beauty inside my home and out, and the use of technology that keeps me connected to family and friends and helps me offer and receive love every day.

I am free from the responsibility of land ownership.  I am free to enjoy the beauty of fine art and music whenever I wish through public galleries and online music from across the globe. I have the luxury of reading books by authors of a multitude of genres and to be connected through my reading and listening to people all over the world.  

I live in my own definition of luxury and am so grateful. I am happy to be alive and wake up in the morning consciously aware of how truly blessed I am. There is a simple peace in that. No need to strive to acquire more, control more, have more. No need to be in charge of other people or have things that I must own. The joy of true connection and respect for all that surrounds me is for me living in luxury.