PFM Confessional: sesheta speaks

i think of the PFM confessional as the platform, similar to the time on reality shows where the characters commentate on the scenes that are happening, where becca and and i can give a little more insight as to who and what we are - as designers and people.

that being said, i watched the show "Hoarders" for the first time tonite.  all i can say is OMFG (had to add an expletive in there).  i know that i am an extra sensitive person but this show really struck a chord with me.  witnessing the degree to which people will let their quality of life degrade is literally painful.  don't get me wrong, i totally get that this becomes a sickness for these individuals.  triggered by loss, sickness, depression, etc., either way, hoarding is definitely a dis-ease.  honestly, for me, it is downright scary to see how far some people let it go.  i think what rings so clear for me is my identification with having an affinity for "things".  i like so many different types of things and have also been overtaken by the need to have certain things (more often than i'd like to admit)but i have been blessed with some degree of discipline.  it seems like the people affected by hoarding at some point or another decide to give up.  they become so overwhelmed by life and situations, that taking the next step is too great to conceive.  watching this show leaves me with mixed feelings.  on one hand, i am saddened by what i've seen.  while i understand that this is a real sickness, it highlights the level of wealth that we have in this country and the fact that so many of us take that for granted.  there are people who don't have homes and/or don't know when they will have their next meal -- in America and in other countries. on the other hand, i am so glad that there are people like the "Hoarders" cast who are willing to go in and assist these people with re-claiming their lives.   i also applaud all the individuals documented for being able to take that first step.  all in all, i am left with a new found appreciation of how blessed i am to have all that i have.  i know that in an instant it can all be taken away, as many have experienced due to Hurricane Irene.  the good thing is that, while things are fun to have and obtain, i know that i am not defined by material things.  what about you? - sesheta