Needs or Wants?

In October I began mulling over in my head the items that will go on the “Catherine’s Wishes and Wants List 2006”. What with the 12 Days of Me and then Christmas coming up I feel I can never be too prepared. My circle knows about this list and some will even ask for a copy. How do they know about it? I consult with many about what should go on it; as a matter of fact that is what the whole “Year’s Supply” post was about. I was looking for ideas.
My list is always predominately needs driven. My thought is, if I can get something given to me that I need (toilet paper and coffee) then that frees up my budget money for other lesser needs (prescription drugs and dental).
Once I was trying to persuade a friend to ask for things he needed for Christmas instead of a scope for his gun. He argued with me that gifts should be not what you need but what you want. I agree, that would be great, unless you’re out of toilet paper, underwear, or your A.D.D. medicine. Don’t get me wrong, there are things on my list that I don’t need, like the Sony Cyber-shot® DSC-W7 Digital Camera from my 2005 list. And even though it isn’t a high priority with me it WILL be resubmitted on the 2006 list because no one bought if for me last year AND I still want it real bad.
I still think it’s always better to have your needs met. Looking back on the 2005 list I noticed several items I didn’t get (the robe, the towels, the Land's End tote bag) and one year later I don’t care. Hummm, maybe I didn’t really need them after all. One of the big challenges in life is learning what it is you truly need and appreciating what you already have.