Sunday morning coffee. A quiet luxury: time, relaxation, a free day ahead.
Three adults -we sit around the table- and we try to define some luxuries of life.
“The absence of war or dictatorship is a luxury.”
"No fear, no stress....".
At first, luxuries are defined by absence: no war, no work pressure, no urban noise, no dishonest food industry peddling expensive junk.
Then, the conversation turns to hardship—life’s inevitable weight.
“I wish saying farewell to [parent] had been easier, not so drawn-out and exhausting.”
Gently, the focus shifts. Luxury becomes love, health, happiness.
“Knowing there are people who love me, and whom I love.”
“A good night’s sleep.”
"Food that doesn’t cause eczema or migraines.”
"Coffee together!”
"The kitchen is filled with the smell of freshly baked bread.”
The micro cosmos matters. It sustains us against the outside world. “An hour of uninterrupted drawing.” “A minimalist home, where the home-keeping monster is easily tamed.” “Feeling healthy—or receiving good care.” “Spirituality, or a life philosophy.” “Staying in flow.” “Cutting back societal pressures, freedom from conventions.”
What emerges as most the important luxuries of life? Safety (no war), freedom (no dictators), and love. Also, mental strength—to pursue a meaningful life. Yet, the mundane anchors us: a cozy home, warm coffee, a pet’s affection, proper food that nourishes us without causing harm.
No one mentions yachts or private islands. Not even cars or distant holidays. Our luxuries are human rights in disguise: safety, love, a meaningful life. Monks and nuns prove we need little to live richly.
As we sip our coffee, happiness grows. A good conversation—speaking freely, dreaming aloud, listening deeply—is another special luxury.
P.S. And by the way… we keep our coffee mugs warm with our Mandarin Duck One Cup Warmers, made by Marga van der Vet and featured on this site.
Paula Kuitenbrouwer
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