Well written, 'slice of life' piece - enjoyable read. Thank you for a completely non-political, thought provoking essay. More like this...

@2 his articles exploring the relationship between the individual and possessions (aka "having stuff") are my favorite. Much more thought provoking than his more commonly found anti-capitalist screeds. I think the best lessons are the ones that creep up on you.

Yes, more like this!

A friend used to suffer from trichotillomania (compulsive hair plucking). She managed to break that habit, but now she compulsively twists and runs her fingers along her hair instead. It makes me anxious to watch it. Not saying your mother's reaction was appropriate, but I understand where she was coming from.