What It’s Worth

Materialism takes part in our current lives no matter what social class we are in. Being materialistic can be regarded as greed, yet there is a fine line among ethical quality and individual interests. Whether or not we like to admit it, we all have the tiniest bit of materialism in our essence. It can range from purchasing the top brand of clothing items to buying a wide assortment of cars. Clearly, these two can be seen as overvaluing our interests. Yes, buying nice clothes itself is typical for individuals, where everyone does it almost all of the time. But At the same time, purchasing six or seven sports cars can be considered selfish. But if you were to be asked the question, “what do you consider more important? Your personal values or your materialistic possessions?” most people would answer ‘values’ when the idea of materialism is pictured. But what about our day-to-day lives? It is likely that we cannot ignore the indulgence of purchasing products that we soon compare to our peers.

There are numerous variables that go into a person being dependent on the materials that they have. Voracity and unreasonable extravagances are what can decide the corruption of an individual. Experiencing childhood in a genuinely prosperous being, it was anything but difficult to recognize the distinctions among various social classes and the manner in which they present themselves in society. Although we cannot escape ourselves from materialism, it is imperative to look around you and reflect whether or not that object is necessary to have. This way, we can gain a new perspective, and realize that happiness does not only come from materialistic things, but also in the most unusual things that others might not acknowledge. Happiness can be easily obtained, it all just depends on how a person perceives those things.

When I lived in the Philippines, my family and I were always considered to be living in a prosperous life. In a country where twenty-one percent of the population is in poverty, it is no shock that people will see us as the aristocrats of the community. Owning five cars, three houses, gated porches and so on will paint you a picture of wealth. It was clear that only a handful of the population in my town was financially secure, and in no doubt that the manner in which they introduced themselves was somewhat brash. Although some were exceptionally welcoming, many did parade their material belongings, including me. This made the people from the society that was not all that adjusted stood out like sore thumbs.

During the first week of summer, my family and I had decided to visit my grandparents. They lived in a province called Sibuco where at that time, only 28,000 people populated the area. My grandparents were one of the fewest who lived in comfort. Yes, the Philippines is not one of the richest countries on the planet, although the currency made it easy for people with enough money to live in a rather comfortable manner. On the other hand, the majority struggled as they beg for scraps of food.

A plane to the capital, a boat to the province, and a bus to our destination. Or so what we had planned. For the good, or for the bad, something was always bound to happen. Just two weeks before our trip, a bad typhoon hit the area. Genuinely I felt bad, knowing the state of being of the majority of the people. While the concrete walls of my grandparents stood sturdy like a pyramid, The less fortunate ones had their so-called ‘home’ blown away to pieces. That did not shock me, however, what did was the smile on their faces as they saw us passing by. The community, despite recovering from the impact of the storm welcomed us with open arms. Later that night, I realized the context of mapagbigay or the generous attitude that was shown towards us. More amazingly, a family who offered us food and drinks when they themselves have nothing to consume. This extraordinary generosity had a life-changing impact on me.

In a country flooded with poverty, a province filled with the frowns of uncountable homeless people, I had lived my life as if these circumstances merely existed. I did not care for anything other than my well being. Although it was not long when I had finally discovered that there is more to life than just what shoes I wore or what purse I am to take to the park. “If you don’t want to end up like them, you better study hard and know what your priorities are” my mom always said every time we encounter people begging for money. She was right, although I always thought to myself, “What if they didn’t have a choice? What if they were born into that?” I always felt sorry, even guilt evaded me just for glancing at those unfortunate people.

Realizing all this had suddenly become the key to an old box of a new point of view. Seeing parents whose children no longer live in the family because of extreme poverty, but nevertheless had their positive mindset because a little bit of hope prevented them from giving up. A loaf of stale bread to be discarded could be their feast for a family of six. That is hope. A glass of orange juice could be considered as ‘desert’ to the kids who struggle to find water. That is hope. Hope to be detached from their current state. Hope to see the faces of their