I always hesitate after big purchases, but for better or worse, I just bought a new bike. It’s the same brand and style as my two previous ones (I’m starting to express some brand loyalty). Here’s a picture:
A few questions for the audience as it relates to my recent purchase:
- This will be my main mode of transportation. Did I pay too much for it? How do I decided good stewardship on something like that?
- Should I uglify this one like I did my previous bike? Bumper stickers all over and more?
- Is it right to want nicer things because you’ll use them more?
arrgghh.. i’m having to re-write this because this comp screwed up.
anyway.. hey there ariah. i hope you didn’t forget who i was. it’s daniel kim, your psych buddy. anyway, i just wanted to let u know that i still read your blogs and am challenged and encouraged in the ways you seek after God and a right living. thanks for sharing with us your journey. i think you and mindy are awesome.
i don’t think you spent too much on your bike. the reason is this: it will be your main mode of transportation. most people’s main mode of transportation is car, and those things are $3,000+ for a decent used, and $20,000+ new, plus ongoing costs such as maintanence, gas, and insurance. you will probably have paid off the cost of the bike in a few months by simply not having to fill up at the pump.
in response to your question about “uglifying” your bike, i don’t know if you want to put on stickers because you like them or support the things that they are of; but i dont think there is value in making it “ugly”. in my opinion, avoiding luxury and extravagance doesnt necessarily mean seeking the ugly for the sake of it. so i dont think you should uglify your bike, but u could decorate it if you so pleased.
and lastly, as i was thinking about your questions, i was reminded of Foster’s chapter on Simplicity in his Celebration of Discipline. I’ve had to re-read that just a few days ago actually, to help out a prof. But anyway, i liked that chapter a lot. you probably have the book or have access to it, and i think you’d really enjoy reading it. it was sweet.
anyway.. that’s it for now.
thanks for seeking hard after God
and showing us how it’s going..
peace bro
-daniel kim