A bag and some clothes


When I was a teenager circumstances had me living with my father and step-mother for a little while. This is one of the few times my father directly imparted wisdom to me and so far its proven true. He said

"Son, no matter what happens, how rich or poor, no matter where in the world you go, you really only have a couple things to call your own. Your word, always number one, and always keep to it. The more physical thing is a bag and some clothes."

At the time I didn't understand the reference, so he clarified for me by explaining that throughout his life he has had several instances where he lost everything, except a garbage bag of clothes. I didn't understand it at the time, but little did I know I was about to get a lesson from life itself on the subject, in the form of job corps, boot camp, and the military. During these times I found myself in the position of owning nothing except a bag and some clothes, and in a slow realization of clarity the conversation with my father flooded back and I understood what he was trying to say. Do not get attached to material things, as they can easily be lost, stolen, or taken away by life itself.
This is not to say that you should not value your things. I personally value every single item in my pack, as its all neccesary for my survival and comfort long term. Still sporting the bag, but the majority of my clothes have been replaced with other items such as a multi-tool, a stainless cook pot, a water filter system, a sleep system, and food. One change of clothes plus a few extra pairs of socks is about the limit of my clothing that I keep always ready. Maybe I should update my fathers wisdom to be a bag and a change of clothes.