I had a very eye-opening experience when I was on my lunch break on Friday. I went to a local cafe to buy my lunch (which I hardly ever do, I usually bring food from home). I placed my order and everything was fine. I sometimes get coffee from the same place, so the lady that served me is usually pretty chatty when I go in. She took my order, and I paid for it. As I was paying, I caught her looking at the jewellery I was wearing. I don't really wear much jewellery, but I have been wearing two rings quite a bit recently. She has complimented me on one of them before but she was looking at my new ring with a strange expression on her face.
As I said, I don't wear much jewellery, and I certainly don't buy expensive jewellery. The most expensive piece of jewellery I own is worth no more than about $150. Most of the jewellery I wear is sterling silver, or sterling silver with cubic zirconia. The waitress was looking at my ring and said "You should buy real rings, you know..." I was shocked by this. Usually I wouldn't say anything back when someone makes a comment like that, but I replied, "I'm saving up for a trip overseas." thinking to myself that was was a perfectly reasonable thing to say, and a perfectly good explanation for not buying expensive jewellery with real diamonds. She looked at me, bewildered, and said, "Why would you do that? I like to spend my money on things that I can actually have...to keep, you know? It's just a matter of personal taste, I guess." I was completely shocked, I honestly didn't know what to say. So I just left.
I understand that some people prefer to spend money on material things. But I was horrified that anyone could be so judgemental, especially over something like that. I buy things because I like them, not because they are expensive or because I want other people to envy them. If I love something, I'll buy it. I personally think that travelling is invaluable. I have been overseas twice before and I have come back each time a completely different person. It is such an amazing feeling to meet new people and make new friends, to see different cultures and how people live. I love seeing how different nature is when I'm halfway across the world. The grass is greener. And I love the cold. I love seeing how different the architecture is as well. Melbourne is known for the transport, dining out, nightlife, parks and gardens and for sport. The city is beautiful but I feel that there isn't much in the way of historical building. I love Italy for the old churches and ruins. I love England for the quaint little houses. I honestly don't know why anyone would think twice about travelling. If you have the opportunity, do it.
I thought the woman in this cafe was extremely rude and judgemental and I certainly won't be going back there. I don't want to be brought down by people who aren't going to support my goals, no matter who they are. I would love to hear what you think, do you prefer to buy expensive clothes/jewellery/bag/shoes etc. or do you prefer to use your money to create experiences and memories that will last a lifetime?
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